- 5 Cy Young Awards
- 10-time All-Star
- World Series Champion (2001)
- Over 4,000 career strikeouts
Randy Johnson is the definitive pitching legend for the Arizona Diamondbacks. Known for his imposing 6'10" frame and fierce competitiveness, “The Big Unit” led the D-Backs to their first World Series title in 2001, where he shared World Series MVP honors.
His fastball-slider combo and dominant strikeouts earned him four consecutive Cy Young Awards from 1999 to 2002 while with Arizona. Johnson's intimidating presence and consistent performance helped establish the D-Backs as contenders in the early 2000s, and he remains one of the most iconic players in franchise history.
- 4 Cy Young Awards
- 18-time All-Star
- World Series Champion (1995)
- Career ERA below 3.00
Greg Maddux’s mastery of control and finesse made him the ace for the Atlanta Braves during the team’s 1990s dynasty. Known as “The Professor,” Maddux won four consecutive Cy Young Awards, three with the Braves, and became a key figure in their 1995 World Series championship.
His ability to place pitches with pinpoint accuracy set him apart, as did his impressive ERA and low walk rate. Maddux’s strategic pitching style and command on the mound made him a revered figure in Braves history and one of the greatest pitchers of all time.
- 3 Cy Young Awards
- 6-time All-Star
- World Series Champion (1970)
- Career ERA below 3.00
A key figure in Baltimore’s golden era, Jim Palmer spent his entire career with the Orioles and remains their all-time best pitcher. Known for his consistent and powerful fastball, Palmer led the team to three World Series championships and earned three Cy Young Awards.
His durability and workhorse mentality allowed him to rack up impressive innings, with eight 20-win seasons. Palmer’s contributions on the mound helped establish Baltimore as a powerhouse in the 1970s, and he still holds numerous team records, securing his legacy as an Orioles icon.
- 3 Cy Young Awards
- 8-time All-Star
- World Series Champion (2004)
- Career ERA below 3.00
Pedro Martinez electrified Boston with his talent, intensity, and pinpoint accuracy. His 1999 and 2000 seasons are regarded among the best ever for a pitcher, with Martinez winning two Cy Young Awards during his time with the Red Sox.
Known for his devastating changeup and fearlessness, he helped the Red Sox break their 86-year World Series drought in 2004. His legacy in Boston is defined by both his incredible stats and his passion for the game, which left a lasting impact on the franchise and its fans.
- 4 Cy Young Awards
- 18-time All-Star
- World Series Champion (1995)
- Career ERA below 3.00
Greg Maddux began his career with the Cubs, winning his first Cy Young Award in 1992 before achieving even greater success in Atlanta. His command of the strike zone and ability to outsmart batters made him a fan favorite at Wrigley Field.
Known for his strategic pitching style, Maddux’s ability to paint the corners and induce weak contact set him apart as a master of the game. His time with the Cubs laid the foundation for his Hall of Fame career and cemented his status as a pitching legend.
- Won 20 games in 1917
- Key member of the "Black Sox Scandal" of 1919
- Career ERA of 2.38 with White Sox
Eddie Cicotte, best known for his devastating “shine ball” and innovative pitching style, was the White Sox’s ace during the 1910s. His mastery over the pitch helped him lead the American League in wins in 1917, guiding the White Sox to a World Series title.
Though his career was later marred by the Black Sox Scandal, Cicotte's skill and effectiveness on the mound were undeniable. He remains a historically significant figure in White Sox history for his influence on the team during one of their most successful periods.
- Cy Young Award (1991)
- World Series Champion (1990)
- Led the NL in ERA in 1991
Jose Rijo’s stellar pitching helped the Reds claim the 1990 World Series, where he earned MVP honors for his dominant performances. Known for his explosive fastball and lively slider, Rijo consistently delivered when it mattered most. His workhorse mentality and resilience on the mound made him a standout in Reds history.
Rijo’s postseason heroics and reliable pitching kept Cincinnati competitive and left a lasting legacy as one of the greatest pitchers in Reds franchise history.
- 5 No-Hitters
- 8-time All-Star
- Led the AL in strikeouts for six consecutive seasons
Bob Feller’s blazing fastball and fierce competitiveness made him a Cleveland icon and one of the best pitchers of all time. Known as “Rapid Robert,” he spent his entire career with Cleveland, racking up three no-hitters and leading the league in strikeouts seven times.
Feller’s military service during World War II added to his legend, as he returned to dominate the mound. His legacy in Cleveland is unmatched, and he remains a revered figure among Guardians fans for his contributions on and off the field.
- Led the NL in wins in 2018
- All-Star in 2018
Kyle Freeland’s 2018 season marked a high point for Rockies pitching, as he posted a 2.85 ERA, nearly unheard of at hitter-friendly Coors Field. A Colorado native, Freeland brings local pride to the Rockies’ rotation with his resilience and groundball-inducing style.
Known for his strong command and ability to limit home runs, Freeland stands out as one of the Rockies’ most effective pitchers, offering stability in a notoriously challenging pitching environment.
- Cy Young Award (1968 and 1969)
- Only pitcher to win 30 games in a season since 1931
- 1968 AL MVP
Denny McLain’s remarkable 1968 season, in which he won 31 games, remains one of the greatest in MLB history. He led the Tigers to a World Series victory that year, securing both the Cy Young and MVP awards.
Known for his powerful fastball and aggressive pitching, McLain’s ability to dominate hitters made him a fan favorite. Though his career faced ups and downs, McLain’s 1968 performance solidified his legacy as one of Detroit’s all-time great pitchers.
- Cy Young Award (1986)
- Led the NL in ERA in 1986
Mike Scott’s dominance in the 1986 season, which earned him the Cy Young Award, made him a legend in Houston. Known for his lethal split-finger fastball, Scott’s pitching led the Astros to the NLCS, where he turned in unforgettable performances.
He threw a no-hitter to clinch the division title that year and became known as one of the toughest pitchers in the league. His consistency and clutch postseason pitching have secured Scott’s legacy as one of the greatest pitchers in Astros history.
- Cy Young Award (2009)
- 7-time All-Star
- Career ERA below 3.00
Zack Greinke’s Cy Young-winning 2009 season with the Royals remains one of the most impressive in team history. Known for his sharp command and intelligence on the mound, Greinke posted a stellar 2.16 ERA that season, despite pitching for a rebuilding team.
His versatility, combined with an impressive pitch mix, made him one of the most feared pitchers in the league. Greinke’s time with Kansas City left a lasting impact, solidifying him as one of the best pitchers to wear a Royals uniform.
- 7 No-Hitters
- Most career strikeouts in MLB history
- 8-time All-Star
Nolan Ryan’s time with the Angels saw him become one of baseball’s most intimidating pitchers, thanks to his blazing fastball and high strikeout rate. Ryan threw four of his record seven no-hitters with the Angels and became the franchise’s all-time strikeout leader.
His fierce competitiveness and unmatched endurance made him a fan favorite and an icon of the Angels organization. Ryan’s influence on the team’s culture of pitching excellence is still felt, marking him as the greatest pitcher in Angels history.
- 3 Cy Young Awards
- 7 No-Hitters
- World Series MVP (1963)
Sandy Koufax’s remarkable left arm powered the Dodgers to three World Series titles and earned him three Cy Young Awards. His stretch from 1962 to 1966 remains one of the most dominant in MLB history, with Koufax posting incredible ERAs and winning records each year.
Known for his devastating curveball and incredible control, Koufax is revered not only for his talent but also for his sportsmanship. His legacy with the Dodgers is unmatched, making him one of baseball’s all-time greats.
- Cy Young Award (1996)
- 5-time All-Star
- 1997 World Series champion with Marlins
Kevin Brown was a cornerstone of the Marlins’ rotation during their 1997 World Series run. Known for his powerful sinker and intense presence on the mound, Brown posted a 1.89 ERA that season, setting a Marlins record.
His performance in the playoffs was instrumental in helping Miami secure their first championship. Brown’s brief but impactful tenure with the Marlins made him a key figure in the team’s history and one of the franchise’s all-time greats.
- Cy Young Award (1988)
- 4-time All-Star
- 20-game winner in 1986
- 1,081 career strikeouts
Teddy Higuera remains one of the best pitchers in Milwaukee Brewers history, known for his strong left-handed command and ability to strike out hitters.
Higuera’s best season came in 1986, when he finished with a 20-11 record and a 2.79 ERA, earning All-Star and Cy Young consideration. His ability to dominate on the mound, despite battling injuries later in his career, made him a fan favorite. Higuera’s contributions helped define Brewers pitching and left a lasting legacy with the team.
- 2 Cy Young Awards
- 4-time All-Star
- World Series Champion (2006)
Johan Santana’s dominance with the Twins earned him two Cy Young Awards and established him as one of the best pitchers in franchise history.
Known for his devastating changeup and high strikeout rate, Santana was nearly unhittable at his peak, leading the league in ERA and strikeouts multiple times. His consistency and ability to handle high-pressure situations made him invaluable to the Twins, and his impact is still felt among fans and players alike as a franchise legend.
- Cy Young Award (1985)
- 4-time All-Star
- 1984 NL Rookie of the Year
Dwight “Doc” Gooden electrified the Mets and their fans in the 1980s, with his remarkable 1985 season being one of the best in baseball history.
Gooden’s 1.53 ERA and 268 strikeouts that year earned him the Cy Young Award and made him a superstar. Known for his blazing fastball and pinpoint control, Gooden was a crucial part of the Mets’ 1986 World Series-winning team. His early success and charisma left a lasting legacy in New York and endeared him to Mets fans forever.
- Cy Young Award (1978)
- 3-time All-Star
- World Series Champion (1978)
Ron Guidry, or “Louisiana Lightning,” dominated with the Yankees in the late 1970s and early 1980s, notably winning the 1978 Cy Young Award after a 25-3 season.
Known for his powerful slider and high strikeout rate, Guidry played a crucial role in the Yankees’ championship runs. His tenacity and leadership on the mound made him a fan favorite and an enduring icon in Yankees history, with his number later retired by the team as a tribute to his contributions.
- 7 Cy Young Awards (pre-World War II)
- 10-time All-Star
- World Series Champion (1929)
Lefty Grove’s dominance in the 1920s and early 1930s with the Athletics made him one of the best pitchers of his era.
Known for his fierce competitive spirit and blazing fastball, Grove won two World Series titles and earned an MVP award. His impact on the team was immense, as he led the league in strikeouts several times and helped build the A’s reputation as a powerhouse. Grove’s legacy with the Athletics is one of excellence and resilience.
- 4 Cy Young Awards
- 10-time All-Star
- World Series Champion (1980)
Steve Carlton’s dominance in the 1970s and ‘80s made him the Phillies’ greatest pitcher.
With four Cy Young Awards, Carlton led the league in strikeouts and helped Philadelphia capture their first World Series in 1980. Known for his intense focus and devastating slider, Carlton’s contributions to the Phillies have made him an enduring legend in Philadelphia.
- 20-game winner in 1944
- 6-time All-Star
- 2.94 ERA with Pirates
Preacher Roe’s crafty pitching style helped lead the Pirates during his tenure in the 1940s.
Known for his finesse and deceptive “blooper” pitch, Roe earned a reputation as one of the league’s cleverest pitchers. Though he later found success with the Dodgers, his years with the Pirates showcased his talent and made him a standout pitcher for the franchise.
- Cy Young Award (1996)
- 5-time All-Star
- First Padres pitcher to record over 250 strikeouts in a season
Kevin Brown’s single season with the Padres in 1998 was instrumental in leading them to the World Series.
Known for his powerful sinker, Brown struck out 257 batters that season and kept hitters off-balance. His impact on the Padres’ success, even in just one season, left a lasting mark, making him a top pitcher in San Diego’s history.
- 3 Cy Young Awards (pre-World War II)
- World Series Champion (1905)
- 373 career wins with Giants
- 2.13 career ERA
Christy Mathewson’s legendary career with the New York Giants (now San Francisco) in the early 1900s set the standard for greatness.
Known for his precise control and intelligence on the mound, Mathewson’s contributions led the Giants to multiple pennants. His clean-cut image and success made him a beloved figure, and he remains one of the most iconic pitchers in baseball history.
- 5 Cy Young Awards
- 10-time All-Star
- World Series Champion (2001)
Randy Johnson’s time with the Mariners featured his rise to dominance, where his overpowering fastball and imposing presence made him nearly unhittable.
Known for his incredible strikeout ability, Johnson won his first Cy Young with Seattle and helped the team reach new heights. His contributions to the Mariners solidify his legacy as one of the franchise’s all-time greats.
- 2-time Cy Young Award winner
- World Series MVP (1967)
- Career ERA below 3.00
Bob Gibson’s fierce competitiveness and dominance in the 1960s made him a St. Louis Cardinals legend.
Known for his intimidating presence and powerful fastball, Gibson won two Cy Young Awards and an MVP, leading the Cardinals to two World Series titles. His historic 1968 season, where he posted a 1.12 ERA, remains one of the greatest in baseball history.
- Cy Young Award (2018)
- World Series Champion (2020)
- 1.89 ERA in 2018 season
Blake Snell’s 2018 season with the Rays saw him win the Cy Young Award, posting a 1.89 ERA and showcasing his electric fastball and curveball.
Known for his ability to dominate hitters, Snell led the Rays to postseason appearances and became a franchise cornerstone. His success with Tampa Bay has left a lasting impact, making him one of their all-time great pitchers.
- Cy Young Award (1971)
- 7-time All-Star
- First Canadian Hall of Famer
- 2-time 20-game winner with Rangers
- Career ERA of 3.31 with Rangers
Ferguson Jenkins’ time with the Rangers in the mid-1970s showcased his remarkable control and durability.
Known for his fastball and competitive spirit, Jenkins posted multiple 20-win seasons and became the first Ranger to reach such heights. His talent and consistency on the mound made him one of the greatest pitchers in Texas Rangers history.
- 7 Cy Young Awards
- 11-time All-Star
- World Series Champion (1992, 1993)
Roger Clemens’ brief time with the Blue Jays was historic, as he won back-to-back Cy Young Awards in 1997 and 1998.
Known for his powerful fastball and intense competitiveness, Clemens led the league in ERA and strikeouts during his Toronto stint. His performance in Toronto remains a highlight in Blue Jays history, and he is celebrated as one of the team’s best.
- 3 Cy Young Awards
- 8-time All-Star
- World Series Champion (2019)
- 300+ strikeouts in a season twice with Nationals
Max Scherzer’s tenure with the Nationals was marked by dominance and his role in the team’s first World Series title in 2019.
Known for his fiery intensity and unmatched strikeout ability, Scherzer won two Cy Young Awards with Washington and was a leader on and off the field. His contributions to the Nationals have solidified his legacy as one of the franchise’s all-time greats.
