Pitching in Major League Baseball (MLB) is an art form that requires a blend of technique, raw talent, and unwavering determination. Since the 1960s, we've witnessed significant advancements in pitching, led by legendary players who have forever changed the game. In this article, we will shine a light on the careers of 10 of the most impactful starting pitchers from the modern era - each of whom has stamped their mark on MLB history.
Curt Schilling
Curt Schilling’s career is a testament to his extraordinary talent, though his post-retirement controversies often overshadow his achievements. Schilling was pivotal in breaking the "Curse of the Bambino" as part of the legendary 2004 Boston Red Sox roster, delivering unforgettable performances, particularly the legendary "bloody sock" game. With six All-Star appearances, three World Series titles, over 3,000 strikeouts, and a career ERA of 3.46, Schilling’s on-field accomplishments speak volumes. While he remains outside the Hall of Fame, many argue that his career milestones should make him a worthy candidate for inclusion amongst this pantheon of the game's greats.
Tom Glavine
Tom Glavine epitomized consistency and strategic brilliance during his illustrious career with the Atlanta Braves. A two-time Cy Young Award winner and ten-time All-Star, Glavine was instrumental in the Braves' 1990s period of dominartion. His 305 career wins and 3.54 ERA highlight the ability he had to outwit batters of all styles. Glavine’s 2014 Hall of Fame induction solidified his legacy as one of baseball's finest pitchers and makes him a worthy entrant in this list.
Bob Gibson
Bob Gibson’s fierce competitiveness and masterful pitching for the St. Louis Cardinals earned him a Hall of Fame spot in 1981. His 1968 season, featuring a staggering 1.12 ERA, remains one of the most remarkable in MLB history, earning him a unanimous Cy Young Award. Gibson’s eight All-Star selections and two World Series MVP titles underscore his ability to perform under pressure, securing his place among the greats.
Steve Carlton
Steve Carlton, known affectionately as "Lefty," dumbfounded hitters with his devastating slider in a career spanning two decades. Over his time as an active player, Carlton earned four Cy Young Awards and amassed 4,136 strikeouts, ranking him fourth all-time. His tenure with the Philadelphia Phillies was particularly notable, especially during their 1980 World Series triumph. Carlton’s Hall of Fame induction in 1994 was a fitting tribute to his exceptional career and his impact on the game.
Greg Maddux
Greg Maddux, dubbed "The Professor," brought an intellectual approach to pitching that was second to none. A Hall of Famer since 2014, Maddux won four Cy Young Awards in a row from 1992 to 1995 and an unparalleled 18 Gold Gloves. His 355 career wins and 3.16 ERA are testaments to the precision and control which were a hallmark of his game. In terms of his legacy, however, it was Maddux’s ability to dominate games with his mind and arm which truly allowed him to stand out from the crowd.
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Pedro Martinez
Pedro Martinez’s electrifying career was defined by his exceptional skill and dominant presence on the mound. With three Cy Young Awards and a career ERA of 2.93, Martinez consistently outperformed his peers. His time with the Boston Red Sox, culminating in their 2004 World Series win, was particularly noteworthy. Martinez’s 2015 Hall of Fame induction was a celebration of his phenomenal career and lasting impact on the game.
Nolan Ryan
Nolan Ryan’s legendary status was cemented by the record-high 5,714 strikeouts he achieved, seven no-hitters and a host of other accolades he achieved in a career that spanned over an extraordinary 27-year period. Despite his career ERA being a comparatively high 3.19, Ryan’s sheer dominance and longevity make him a baseball icon. His 1999 Hall of Fame induction acknowledged his remarkable contributions and fearsome reputation as one of the sport’s most daunting pitchers.
Randy Johnson
"The Big Unit," who stood out both literally and figuratively at 6’10”, Randy Johnson is a great of the game. His five Cy Young Awards and 4,875 strikeouts, the second-highest in MLB history, illustrate his overpowering presence on the mound. Johnson’s perfect game at age 40 and career ERA of 3.29 highlight his enduring excellence. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2015, Johnson is celebrated as one of baseball’s most dominant and iconic figures.
Roger Clemens
Roger Clemens, carrying the moniker of "The Rocket", achieved an extraordinary seven Cy Young Awards and 354 wins, coupled with a career ERA of 3.12 in a storied career. Despite controversies surrounding alleged steroid use, which have impacted his Hall of Fame eligibility, Clemens’s on-field performances remain extraordinary. His status as one of baseball’s elite pitchers is undisputed, reflecting a career marked by dominance and resilience - albeit under a cloud.
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Sandy Koufax
Sandy Koufax’s career, whilst cruelly curtailed by injury, remains one of the most illustrious in baseball history. Koufax’s list of accolades include three Cy Young Awards, a career ERA of 2.76 and - notably - the 1963 MVP title. His peak years from 1963 to 1966 were marked by unparalleled dominance, featuring multiple no-hitters and a perfect game. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1972, Koufax’s legacy as one of the game's true greats is firmly established, a fitting tribute to his exceptional talent and enduring impact on the game of baseball.
