Jolley: Carlton's Magical 1972 Season Set Modern-Day Cy Young Award Standard
The 1972 season of Steve Carlton, a towering left-handed pitcher, was a testament to his dominance and the impact he had on the game. Despite the Philadelphia Phillies' overall struggles, Carlton's performance was nothing short of extraordinary. With a 27-10 record, a 1.97 ERA, and 310 strikeouts, he led the league in all three major pitching categories, a feat known as the pitching triple crown. This achievement is all the more remarkable considering the Phillies' poor performance, with only 59 wins and 97 losses.
Carlton's success was not just about statistics; it was about his ability to perform under pressure. He won 15 consecutive games, showcasing his resilience and mental fortitude. In 11 of those starts, the Phillies scored two or fewer runs, and Carlton still found a way to win nine of them. His 12.5 WAR, a comprehensive statistic measuring overall effectiveness, was the highest since the legendary Walter Johnson in 1913.
The 1972 Phillies were a struggling team, but Carlton's performance was so exceptional that it seemed to transcend their shortcomings. He pitched 30 complete games, faced 1,351 batters, and had eight shutouts. His ability to dominate games was further evidenced by his performance against Bob Gibson, a future Hall of Famer, whom he beat twice that season.
Carlton's success was not just about his pitching prowess; it was also about his mental conditioning and focus. He was known for his incredible concentration and physical conditioning, allowing him to pitch into his 40s. This dedication to excellence is a hallmark of his career, which spanned over 5,000 innings and included ten All-Star selections.
The impact of Carlton's 1972 season on the Cy Young Award is undeniable. It set a new standard for what it means to be a top pitcher, even for a team that finished last in its division. His performance that year was so outstanding that it sparked a debate about the criteria for the award, with many arguing that Carlton deserved it more than any other pitcher in recent memory.
In the modern era, where ERA and other advanced statistics are highly valued, Carlton's 1972 season serves as a reminder of the importance of context and performance. It challenges the notion that a pitcher's success is solely determined by their win-loss record, especially when pitching for a struggling team. Carlton's dominance in 1972 was a testament to his skill and the impact he had on the game, making him a strong contender for the Cy Young Award even in today's standards.
As we reflect on Carlton's remarkable season, it's clear that his achievement in 1972 was not just a product of individual talent but also a testament to the power of perseverance and excellence. His performance that year set a standard that continues to influence the way we evaluate pitchers today.
