Is Jacob deGrom the Best Pitcher in Major League Baseball?

There is a growing consensus that Jacob deGrom of the New York Mets is not just one of the best pitchers but possibly the very best in Major League Baseball (MLB) as of 2021. As concerns of sticky substance usage have impacted other pitchers, deGrom's consistent performance and reliability have further solidified his status as a top-tier pitcher.

Evidence for deGrom's Excellence

It is now more evident than ever that Jacob deGrom is the best pitcher in baseball. Many veteran and new players alike have stated their belief that Gerrit Cole, Trevor Bauer, and Shohei Ohtani, among others, cannot match deGrom's abilities. This assertion is based on his impressive statistics and consistent performances since 2018.

Consistent Dominance

Since 2018, Jacob deGrom has been a dominant force in the MLB. He regularly hits a fastball speed of 101 mph, strikes out more than 10 batters per 9 innings, and barely allows base runners. His fastball and breaking pitches stand out as the best in the majors. Moreover, deGrom shows no signs of slowing down; he continues to be a driving force in the Mets' pitching rotation.

Health Concerns and Future Projections

While deGrom's performance cannot be denied, concerns about the toll of his extreme velocity on his health are valid. The sheer force behind his pitches is renowned for potentially damaging his tendons and ligaments. Fans hope to see a Jacob deGrom who can still throw hard and accurately five years from now. The quicker and more efficient deGrom is, the more likely his longevity.

Opinions on deGrom's Future

Will deGrom remain the best pitcher in the league, or will another standout pitcher take the top spot? While it's early in the 2021 season to declare a clear favorite, deGrom's performance thus far indicates that he is in the mix for the top spot. There is no current player who can match his consistency and dominance.

Other Top Pitchers

While deGrom is clearly the best in the National League, the American League has its top pitcher in Shane Bieber of the Cleveland Indians. Both Bieber and deGrom are excellent performers, with each having over 50 strikeouts into the new season. It's quite likely that both will start the All-Star Game in Colorado, showcasing their talent on a national platform.

Conclusion

Given deGrom's exceptional consistency and performance, it is clear that he is not just among the top pitchers but is, in fact, the best pitcher in MLB. With an ERA under 1.00, deGrom's dominance over his opponents is undeniable. Fans and analysts alike expect him to continue excelling, making him the linchpin of the Mets' success in the 2021 season and beyond.