MLB Network recently did a countdown of their top 10 starting pitchers. On top of their list was Brewers ace Corbin Burnes. Burnes topped names such as Justin Verlander, Carlos Rodon, Max Scherzer, Sandy Alcantara, and others.
Corbin Burnes is the king among the aces!
Who’s in your top 10? pic.twitter.com/7HY3Bky9ig
— MLB (@MLB) February 2, 2023
What factors contributed to Brewers ace Corbin Burnes being ranked the best starting pitcher by MLB Network?
Interestingly, Burnes was listed ahead of the two most recent Cy Young award winners in Justin Verlander and Sandy Alcantara. Burnes did win the award in 2021 and has been within the top seven in voting over the past three seasons.
MLB network did highlight the fact that since 2020 Burnes has been near or at the top is several pitching categories. They indicated that he is first in FIP (2.40), opponent OPS (.558), opponent xwOBA (.252), RA9-WAR (14.), and second in ERA+ (158) and K percentage (33.4).
After winning the Cy Young award in 2021, Burnes backed up his performance in 2022 with another great season. Last year he was one of three pitchers to post 200+ innings pitched and to have a WHIP under 1.00. He also was the NL leader in strikeouts and he recorded double digit strikeouts on nine different occasions. To pair with all of that he had a 2.94 ERA.
It’s no secret that Burnes has pitched exceptionally well over the past three seasons. Over that time frame he has accomplished a lot and it’s nice to see MLB network recognizing him as the best starting pitcher!
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