When Chris Sale stepped onto the mound in 2024, he was expected to close the final chapter of a once-dominant career. After years of injuries and declining performance, the Atlanta Braves ace was more likely to be planning his retirement party than collecting hardware. But in a plot twist worthy of Hollywood, Sale defied the odds and turned what was supposed to be a farewell tour into the crowning achievement of his career.
Let’s break it down. Many had written off the Sale, acquired by the Braves in a surprising trade with the Boston Red Sox for promising infielder Vaughn Grissom. After all, this was a pitcher who was struggling to stay healthy and relevant. But something clicked in Atlanta. Sale delivered a jaw-dropping 18-3 record, a 2.38 ERA, and 225 strikeouts, earning him a stellar 174 ERA+. These numbers weren’t just good—they were historic. He captured the first National League Triple Crown since 2011 and snagged his first National League Cy Young Award.
Braves Fans Watched as Awards Poured in For Chris Sale
And that’s not all. Sale’s accolades from the 2024 season read like a baseball fan’s fever dream. Beyond the Cy Young and an All-Star nod, he was named NL Comeback Player of the Year by both the BBWAA and Sporting News. His peers voted him the Players Choice National League Comeback Player and Outstanding Pitcher of the Year. He also picked up the Gold Glove Award for pitchers, proving he wasn’t just dominating from the mound—he was doing it in the field, too. Oh, and let’s not forget his selection to the All-MLB First Team.
The resurgence of Chris Sale wasn’t just statistical; it was personal. As he revealed to Foul Territory, Sale had planned to retire after 2024. Years of injuries and declining performance had him shifting his focus toward family life. “We were really kind of planning that this year was probably going to be my last year playing,” Sale said. But the Braves trade reignited something in him, proving there was still gas left in the tank. You can see the full interview below.
With a 2025 contract in hand and a club option for 2026, Sale isn’t just sticking around—he’s thriving. Could we see him pitch into his late 30s? Maybe. For now, though, the baseball world is savoring one of the most remarkable comebacks in recent memory. From almost hanging it up to hanging trophies on his mantle, Chris Sale’s 2024 season is one for the ages.
