This season, the 26-year-old posted a 1.36 ERA, 107-33 strikeout-to-walk ratio, and an even 1.000 WHIP in 12 starts, 27 relief appearances, and 106 innings pitched, while earning eight wins and four saves in seven chances.
Suarez was dominant in red pinstripes this season, his fourth in the majors, whether as a reliever (including closer) or a starter.
Suarez went 21 innings without allowing a run, including his first career shutout against the Pirates and seven scoreless innings against the Miami Marlins in Friday’s eventual series opener win.
The team’s 82nd win, and thus its first winning season since 2011, came thanks to the latter performance.
Suarez also has the second-lowest ERA among pitchers with at least 100 innings pitched in a single season since 1969. Only Bruce Sutter could beat him (1.34, 1977).
Perhaps more impressive, the Venezuela native’s ERA ranks third among pitchers with 100 or more innings pitched and 12 or more starts in the Live Ball era, trailing only Bob Gibson (1.12, 1968) and Red Munger (1.34, 1944).
Aaron Nola was the consensus No. 2 starter behind Zack Wheeler before the season began. Wheeler, Nola, and Zach Eflin (out since mid-July due to injury) were all considered Cy Young Award possibilities by pitching coach Caleb Cotham. Suarez was never mentioned in the conversation.
The left-career hander’s ERA was 4.66 entering 2021; it is now 2.64. Suarez may be the team’s No. 2 starter entering spring training in February, barring a major offseason addition.
Who Are Ranger Suárez Parents?
His father Ricardo is but his mother’s name is not known. His parents are in Venezuela and they are both farmers.