best dodgers pitchers ever

Art Scpae

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20-03-2025

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The Mount Rushmore of Dodger Pitching: A Look at the Franchise's Greatest Arms

The Los Angeles Dodgers boast a rich and storied history, filled with legendary players and unforgettable moments. While the team's offensive prowess often steals the headlines, the foundation of many successful Dodger seasons has been built upon the backs of exceptional pitchers. From the Brooklyn days to the present, the Dodgers have cultivated a lineage of hurlers who have etched their names into baseball lore. Determining the absolute "best" is subjective and sparks endless debates amongst fans, but analyzing statistics, accolades, and overall impact allows us to assemble a compelling case for some of the franchise's most dominant pitchers.

This article delves into the careers of some of the best Dodgers pitchers ever, exploring their contributions to the team's legacy and examining what set them apart from their contemporaries. We will consider both their statistical achievements and their intangible qualities, such as leadership and clutch performances. The list is not exhaustive, and honorable mentions are plentiful, but focusing on a select group allows for a deeper appreciation of their individual brilliance.

The Untouchable Sandy Koufax: Any discussion of the greatest Dodger pitchers begins and often ends with Sandy Koufax. His dominance was breathtaking, a terrifying blend of speed, pinpoint control, and devastating breaking balls. Koufax’s career, tragically shortened by arthritis, is arguably the most impactful short career in baseball history. Three Cy Young Awards (1963, 1965, 1966), three World Series titles, and a World Series MVP award don't even begin to tell the story. His 1.95 career ERA is a testament to his unparalleled mastery of the mound. In a single season, he could strike out more batters than most pitchers do in an entire career. Games against Koufax were often exercises in futility for opposing batters, a stark reminder of the sheer power and precision he possessed. Beyond the statistics, Koufax’s intensity and fierce competitiveness became synonymous with Dodger baseball, solidifying his legacy as a legend.

The Hall of Fame Presence of Don Sutton: In stark contrast to Koufax's blazing fastball, Don Sutton built his Hall of Fame career on guile and impeccable control. He was a master of pitching strategy, utilizing a diverse arsenal of pitches to outsmart hitters. Sutton’s longevity, pitching for two decades and winning 324 games, is a testament to his durability and consistency. While he didn't possess the overpowering stuff of Koufax, Sutton was an innings-eater, a reliable workhorse who consistently gave his team a chance to win. He’s the all-time leader in Dodgers wins, with 233. His unwavering dedication and remarkable control made him a cornerstone of the Dodger pitching staff for years. His quiet determination and mastery of the fundamentals of pitching represent a different kind of greatness, equally impressive and significant.

The Ace of the 80s: Orel Hershiser: Orel Hershiser emerged as the ace of the Dodgers' pitching staff in the 1980s, leading them to a World Series victory in 1988. Hershiser’s most memorable achievement was his incredible scoreless innings streak in 1988, reaching 59 consecutive scoreless innings, a modern-day marvel. This achievement, coupled with his consistent performance throughout the postseason, cemented his place in Dodger history. While his career ERA might not match Koufax's, his contributions in pivotal moments and his reliability under pressure are undeniable. He possessed a deceptive delivery and an array of pitches that kept hitters off balance. Hershiser's calm demeanor on the mound and his ability to rise to the occasion solidified his status as a true Dodger legend.

The Powerhouse of Clayton Kershaw: Entering the conversation as one of the greatest of the modern era is Clayton Kershaw. While his career isn't yet complete, his accomplishments are already Hall of Fame worthy. Three Cy Young Awards, an MVP Award, and a World Series ring speak volumes about his exceptional talent. Kershaw is known for his devastating curveball and pinpoint command, routinely outsmarting some of the best hitters in baseball. While injury has occasionally hampered his dominance, his peak performances have been nothing short of spectacular. He consistently ranks amongst the league leaders in ERA, strikeouts, and WHIP. Kershaw’s impact extends beyond statistics; his leadership and influence on the younger pitchers within the organization represent a significant contribution to the Dodgers' continued success. His legacy is still being written, but his place among the Dodgers' pitching greats is secure.

Honorable Mentions and Beyond: While these four stand out, numerous other exceptional pitchers deserve recognition. Players like Don Drysdale, whose fiery intensity matched his powerful pitching; Fernando Valenzuela, whose screwball captivated fans and revolutionized pitching; and even more recent standouts such as Zack Greinke and Hyun-Jin Ryu, have all contributed significantly to the Dodgers' rich pitching tradition.

The selection of the "best" Dodger pitchers is a subjective exercise, influenced by individual preferences and the era in which one witnessed the game. However, the contributions of Koufax, Sutton, Hershiser, and Kershaw are undeniable. Their accomplishments, their impact on the game, and their lasting legacies cement their places in the pantheon of Dodger greats. Their stories represent not only individual brilliance but also the enduring spirit of excellence that defines the Dodgers' rich pitching history. Their combined impact speaks volumes about the consistent pursuit of pitching prowess that has been a cornerstone of the franchise's success throughout its history.