The greatest pitchers of baseball history have been some of the most exceptional talents ever to play the game. Their skills not only dominated their eras but helped shape the game itself. These legends set records, delivered unforgettable moments, and etched their names into the hearts of fan.
Here’s a look at the Top 10 greatest pitchers of baseball history:
10. Bob Feller

Bob Feller was one of the most powerful pitchers in MLB history. His fastball was legendary, and he spent the majority of his career with the Cleveland Indians. Feller’s accomplishments include eight All-Star selections and a World Series title in 1948. He pitched in an era where the competition was fierce, and his strikeout ability made him a formidable opponent. Feller is widely regarded as one of the greatest pitchers of baseball history for his speed and consistency.
Team | W-L | Shutouts | Innings Pitched | ERA | Strikeouts | WHIP |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cleveland Indians | 266-162 | 44 | 3,827 | 3.25 | 2,581 | 1.32 |
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9. Satchel Paige
Satchel Paige’s career, largely spent in the Negro Leagues, was nothing short of extraordinary. He was known for his electrifying fastball and high-spirited personality. After breaking into Major League Baseball with the Cleveland Indians at the age of 42, Paige continued to defy age and the odds, earning a spot in the Hall of Fame. As one of the greatest pitchers of baseball history, Paige’s impact on the game transcends stats, with his influence still felt today.
Team | W-L | Shutouts | Innings Pitched | ERA | Strikeouts | WHIP |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Pittsburgh Crawfords, Kansas City Monarchs, Cleveland Indians, St. Louis Browns | 28-31 | N/A | 476 | 3.29 | 288 | 1.35 |
8. Tom Seaver

Tom Seaver was one of the most dominant pitchers of the 1960s and 1970s. Nicknamed “Tom Terrific,” he led the New York Mets to a World Series title in 1969 and won three Cy Young Awards. His consistency and ability to perform under pressure are reflected in his career statistics. As one of the greatest pitchers of baseball history, Seaver’s legacy continues to inspire young pitchers.
Team | W-L | Shutouts | Innings Pitched | ERA | Strikeouts | WHIP |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
New York Mets, Cincinnati Reds, Chicago White Sox, Boston Red Sox | 311-205 | 61 | 4,783 | 2.86 | 3,640 | 1.12 |
7. Christy Mathewson
Christy Mathewson’s legendary career with the New York Giants helped solidify his place as one of the best pitchers ever. A Hall of Famer, Mathewson had one of the best fastballs of his era and was a key part of the Giants’ success in the early 1900s. As one of the greatest pitchers of baseball history, Mathewson’s contributions to the game continue to resonate.
Team | W-L | Shutouts | Innings Pitched | ERA | Strikeouts | WHIP |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
New York Giants, Cincinnati Reds | 373-188 | 79 | 4,788.2 | 2.13 | 2,507 | 1.06 |
6. Bob Gibson

Bob Gibson’s career was marked by his intimidating presence on the mound and his ability to perform in high-pressure situations. He played for the St. Louis Cardinals, winning two World Series titles and setting numerous records. His 1968 season, with a 1.12 ERA, is still one of the best single-season performances in history. As one of the greatest pitchers of baseball history, Gibson’s impact remains unforgettable.
Team | W-L | Shutouts | Innings Pitched | ERA | Strikeouts | WHIP |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
St. Louis Cardinals | 251-174 | 56 | 3,884.1 | 2.91 | 3,117 | 1.18 |
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5. Roger Clemens
Roger Clemens was one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball during the 1990s and 2000s. A seven-time Cy Young Award winner, Clemens was known for his overpowering fastball and ability to overpower hitters. He played for multiple teams, including the Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and New York Yankees. Clemens’ place among the greatest pitchers of baseball history is cemented by his unparalleled success.
Team | W-L | Shutouts | Innings Pitched | ERA | Strikeouts | WHIP |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, Houston Astros | 354-184 | 46 | 4,916.2 | 3.12 | 4,672 | 1.17 |
4. Cy Young
Cy Young’s career is the gold standard for pitchers. With 511 wins, he holds the MLB record for most career victories. Young was known for his incredible durability and longevity, playing for over 20 seasons. His name lives on today in the Cy Young Award, given annually to the best pitcher in MLB. As one of the greatest pitchers of baseball history, Young’s legacy remains unmatched.
Team | W-L | Shutouts | Innings Pitched | ERA | Strikeouts | WHIP |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cleveland Spiders, Boston Americans, St. Louis Cardinals, others | 511-316 | 76 | 7,356 | 2.63 | 2,803 | 1.13 |
3. Walter Johnson

Walter Johnson, known as the “Big Train,” was one of the most dominant pitchers in history. He played for the Washington Senators, compiling 417 wins and 110 shutouts. His incredible fastball and impeccable control made him a nightmare for hitters for over two decades. As one of the greatest pitchers of baseball history, Johnson’s contributions to the game are legendary.
Team | W-L | Shutouts | Innings Pitched | ERA | Strikeouts | WHIP |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Washington Senators | 417-279 | 110 | 5,914 | 2.17 | 3,509 | 1.06 |
2. Greg Maddux
Greg Maddux was a master of precision and control, and his ability to avoid mistakes is reflected in his four Cy Young Awards. Maddux didn’t overpower hitters with speed but rather with his impeccable control and off-speed pitches. He was a crucial part of the Atlanta Braves’ success during the 1990s. As one of the greatest pitchers of baseball history, Maddux’s career set the bar for pitching excellence.
Team | W-L | Shutouts | Innings Pitched | ERA | Strikeouts | WHIP |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chicago Cubs, Atlanta Braves, Los Angeles Dodgers, San Diego Padres | 355-227 | 35 | 5,008.1 | 3.16 | 3,371 | 1.14 |
1. Randy Johnson

Randy Johnson, often referred to as “The Big Unit,” was one of the most fearsome pitchers ever. With his towering 6’10” frame and devastating fastball, Johnson compiled over 4,800 strikeouts and five Cy Young Awards. He led the Arizona Diamondbacks to a World Series title in 2001 and is widely considered the best pitcher of his generation. As the epitome of the greatest pitchers of baseball history, Johnson’s legacy is firmly cemented.
Team | W-L | Shutouts | Innings Pitched | ERA | Strikeouts | WHIP |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Seattle Mariners, Arizona Diamondbacks, New York Yankees, San Francisco Giants | 303-166 | 37 | 4,135.1 | 3.29 | 4,875 | 1.17 |
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