MLB pitcher ranking has always been a topic of great interest among baseball enthusiasts and analysts alike. With the MLB season in full swing, fans are eagerly keeping an eye on the rankings to see which pitchers are performing at the top of their game. This article aims to delve into the world of MLB pitcher ranking, providing insights into the criteria used to evaluate pitchers and highlighting some of the top performers in the league.
The MLB pitcher ranking system is based on a variety of factors, including statistics such as ERA (earned run average), WHIP (walks and hits per inning pitched), strikeouts, and wins. Additionally, factors such as a pitcher’s velocity, control, and ability to pitch in crucial situations also play a significant role in determining their ranking. While there are numerous ranking systems available, most analysts agree that a combination of these factors provides the most comprehensive evaluation of a pitcher’s performance.
One of the most prominent MLB pitcher ranking systems is the Baseball-Reference.com (B-R) ranking, which takes into account a wide range of statistics and metrics to assess a pitcher’s performance. According to B-R’s rankings, the top five pitchers at the beginning of the 2021 season were Max Scherzer, Clayton Kershaw, Justin Verlander, Jacob deGrom, and Corey Kluber. These pitchers have showcased their dominance on the mound, with exceptional performances that have earned them their place at the top of the rankings.
Max Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, has been a consistent force in the MLB for years. In 2021, he led the league in strikeouts and finished second in ERA, further cementing his status as one of the best pitchers in the history of the game. Clayton Kershaw, another Cy Young Award winner, has been a staple in the Dodgers’ rotation for years, showcasing remarkable control and a diverse array of pitches. Justin Verlander, a former Cy Young winner himself, has also been a dominant presence on the mound, with a career-high 13 wins in 2021.
Jacob deGrom, who won the Cy Young Award in 2018 and 2019, has continued to perform at an elite level. His pinpoint control and overpowering fastball have made him a nightmare for hitters, as he has tallied over 300 strikeouts in each of the last three seasons. Corey Kluber, a two-time Cy Young Award winner, has also been a key component of the Indians’ rotation, with a career-high 15 wins in 2021.
These top-performing pitchers have not only dominated the rankings but have also contributed significantly to their teams’ success. However, the MLB pitcher ranking landscape is constantly evolving, with new talent emerging and established pitchers facing challenges. For instance, the rise of young pitchers like Corbin Burnes and Shane Bieber has been a pleasant surprise for many, as they have shown remarkable growth and development on the mound.
In conclusion, the MLB pitcher ranking is a fascinating aspect of the game that provides fans with a glimpse into the performance of some of the best pitchers in the world. By analyzing a variety of statistics and metrics, we can better understand the strengths and weaknesses of each pitcher and predict their potential for success. As the 2021 season progresses, we can expect to see more changes in the rankings, as pitchers continue to compete for the title of the best pitcher in the MLB.
