Bret Saberhagen Cy Young Award (1989)

Lore & Background

Known for his blazing fastball and pinpoint control, Saberhagen was named a three-time All-Star, a two-time Cy Young Award winner, a Gold Glove Award winner, and the Most Valuable Player of the 1985 World Series as the Royals beat the St. Louis Cardinals in 7 games. He led MLB in wins and earned run average in 1989, and threw a no-hitter in 1991.

In Their Own Story

The air is crisp at Royals Stadium on a September evening. Saberhagen wipes mud from his cap and stares down the plate, eyes locked on the batter. A hush falls over the crowd as he delivers a sharp screwball that dances away from the bat. The catcher nods, knowing another strikeout is imminent. In this moment, the weight of the season lifts; the Cy Young race is won not by luck, but by the Screamin' Eagle's will.

Reader's Guide

Saberhagen won the American League Cy Young Award in 1985 and again in 1989. He was named MVP of the 1985 World Series. He led MLB in wins and ERA in 1989. He threw a no-hitter on August 26, 1991.

Did You Know?

• Saberhagen won the World Series MVP and the Cy Young Award in the same year (1985), not in consecutive years.
• He threw a no-hitter for the Royals on August 26, 1991, the last no-hitter by a Royal as of the source.
• In 1989, he led both leagues with 12 complete games and had a 23–6 record with a 2.16 ERA.