Cy Young is synonymous with pitching excellence. Since 1956, his name has been attached to the most prestigious award for a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Dozens of workhorses, flamethrowers and firemen have won this honor, all contributing to the pitching legacy that he carved out during his illustrious 22-year career.

But how, exactly, did the “Cy Young Award” as we know it come to be, and why is it named after Cy Young?

On paper, it seems obvious why Young’s name is associated with this honor. He has been the all-time wins leader since the day he retired in 1911 with 511 career victories -- a figure that will likely never be topped. Young’s Baseball Reference page is laden with gold, as he is also the Majors’ all-time leader in losses, games started, complete games, innings pitche

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