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The Cy Young Award is one of the most prestigious accolades in Major League Baseball, given annually to the best pitchers in both the American and National League. Named after Hall of Famer and all-time great pitcher, Cy Young, this award recognizes the top performers on the mound for their incredible skills and contributions to the game.

Each year, there are always a handful of standout pitchers who are considered top candidates for the Cy Young Award. And while winning the award is undoubtedly a great achievement, the positive benefits of being a Cy Young candidate go far beyond that shiny trophy. Let's take a look at some of the positive impacts that being an MLB Cy Young Award candidate can have on a pitcher.

1. Recognition and validation of hard work

Making it to the list of Cy Young Award candidates is no easy feat. It takes years of hard work, dedication, and skill to even be considered one of the best pitchers in the league. Being named a candidate means that the baseball world recognizes your talent and the hard work you have put into perfecting your craft. It is a validation of your efforts and can be a source of motivation to continue to improve and reach new heights in your career.

2. Personal and team success

Being named a Cy Young Award candidate is often a reflection of a pitcher's personal success on the field. The award is given to the best pitcher, meaning that they have had a tremendous impact on their team's success. Winning games, striking out batters, and leading their team to victory are all key factors in being a top Cy Young candidate. This recognition can also help boost team morale and confidence, as having a star pitcher on the team can positively impact the overall performance and success of the entire team.

3. Increased visibility and marketability

Being in the running for the Cy Young Award also means increased visibility and exposure for a pitcher. More people will be tuning in to see their performances and fans will be talking about them, which can lead to a larger fan base and more recognition within the baseball community. This can also translate to increased endorsement deals and opportunities for the pitcher, making them more marketable and potentially more financially successful.

4. Improved negotiating power

For those pitchers who are approaching free agency or looking to negotiate a new contract, being a Cy Young Award candidate can significantly boost their bargaining power. Pitchers who have proven themselves to be among the best in the league are highly sought after by teams, and being a candidate can bring in even more interest and potentially lead to better contract terms.

5. Legacy and place in baseball history

Only a select group of pitchers have been awarded the Cy Young Award, making it a highly coveted and prestigious honor. Being a candidate for this award means that a pitcher's name will be forever associated with some of the greatest and most dominant pitchers in MLB history. This recognition can solidify a player's place as one of the best in the game and their legacy will live on for years to come.

In conclusion, being a candidate for the MLB Cy Young Award has numerous positive benefits beyond just the award itself. It not only recognizes a pitcher's hard work and success but can also lead to increased visibility, marketability, and negotiating power. It also solidifies a pitcher's place in the baseball community and secures their legacy in the history of the game. So while the ultimate goal may be to win the award, being a candidate alone is a significant achievement that brings with it countless positive impacts.