Cy Young's Success and Achievements in Timeline
A closer look at the biggest achievements of Cy Young. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.
Denton True "Cy" Young was a legendary American Major League Baseball pitcher. He began his MLB career in 1890 with the Cleveland Spiders (National League) and later played for the St. Louis Cardinals. A significant portion of his career was spent with the Boston Red Sox franchise (American League), where he contributed to their 1903 World Series victory. He later played for the Cleveland Naps and Boston Rustlers before retiring in 1911. His exceptional career led to the MLB's annual best pitcher award being named the Cy Young Award in his honor.
1901: Joined Boston Americans
In 1901, Cy Young joined the Boston Americans of the American League for a $3,500 contract and led the league in wins, strikeouts, and ERA.
1901: Led League in Wins
In 1901, Cy Young led his league in wins, marking a significant achievement in his career.
October 1, 1903: First Modern World Series Game
On October 1, 1903, the inaugural game of the modern World Series took place, featuring Cy Young's Boston Pilgrims against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
1903: Helped Red Sox win World Series
In 1903, Cy Young contributed to the Boston Red Sox winning the World Series.
1903: Led League in Wins
In 1903, Cy Young led his league in wins, showcasing his consistent performance.
1903: Played in the First Modern World Series
In 1903, Cy Young started Game One of the first modern World Series against the Pittsburgh Pirates and ultimately helped Boston defeat Pittsburgh, five games to three.
1904: Pitched a Perfect Game
In 1904, Cy Young pitched a perfect game, showcasing his skill and control on the mound.
1905: Perfect game in baseball's modern era
Cy Young pitched the third perfect game in baseball history and the first in the modern era.
August 13, 1908: "Cy Young Day"
On August 13, 1908, the league celebrated "Cy Young Day," and no American League games were played.
1909: In the top 10 for innings pitched
Cy Young was in his league's top 10 for innings pitched.
1910: Won 500th Career Game
In 1910, Cy Young won his 500th career game on July 19 against Washington.
1921: Strikeout Record Broken
In 1921, Cy Young's career record for strikeouts was broken by Walter Johnson.
1937: Inducted into Baseball Hall of Fame
In 1937, 26 years after he retired from baseball, Cy Young was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
1937: Elected to Hall of Fame
In 1937, Cy Young was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame, honoring his outstanding career.
1956: Cy Young Award Created
In 1956, one year after his death, the Cy Young Award was established to annually honor the best pitcher in Major Leagues, solidifying his legacy in pitching.
1967: Cy Young Award Divided
In 1967, the Cy Young Award was divided into two, one for each league, further solidifying its prominence.
September 23, 1993: Statue Unveiled
On September 23, 1993, a statue dedicated to Cy Young was unveiled by Northeastern University at the site of the Red Sox's original stadium.
1999: Ranked Among Baseball's Greatest Players
In 1999, Cy Young was ranked 14th on The Sporting News' list of "Baseball's 100 Greatest Players" and was named to the Major League Baseball All-Century Team by baseball fans.
