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Who's the Greatest Pitcher of This Generation?
Justin Verlander, Max Scherzer, Clayton Kershaw and Zack Greinke debate who's the best pitcher of this generation.
In brief
Justin Verlander, Max Scherzer, Clayton Kershaw and Zack Greinke debate who's the best pitcher of this generation. Kershaw has the best historical stats but Verlander's longevity and Scherzer's impact make the debate complex. Originally reported by Mlb.
Quick answers
- Who's the best pitcher?
- Justin Verlander, Max Scherzer, Clayton Kershaw and Zack Greinke are the top contenders for the greatest pitcher of this generation.
- What is the key takeaway from Who's the Greatest Pitcher of This Generation??
- Kershaw has the best historical stats but Verlander's longevity and Scherzer's impact make the debate complex.
Who's the best pitcher?
Justin Verlander, Max Scherzer, Clayton Kershaw and Zack Greinke are the top contenders for the greatest pitcher of this generation.
Kershaw's stats lead
Kershaw has the highest ERA and ERA+ among the four, with five ERA titles and 3,000 strikeouts.
Verlander's longevity
Verlander has the most wins and strikeouts, with a 2011-12 season ranking among the best of all time.
Scherzer's impact
Scherzer has influenced modern pitching with his all-out-every-pitch approach and high strikeout totals.
Greinke's peak
Greinke had an exceptional 2009 season with 2,979 strikeouts and 225 wins, but his career stats trail the others.
Hall of Fame chances
Kershaw has the best chance for unanimous Hall of Fame votes due to his consistent performance and iconic team.
Historical comparison
Kershaw's stats are comparable to the legendary pitchers of the last generation, including Pedro Martinez and Roger Clemens.
Longevity debate
Verlander's 2022 season at age 39 and Scherzer's 2022 season at age 37 highlight their different career trajectories.
Strikeout totals
Verlander has 3,554 strikeouts, Scherzer has 3,550, Kershaw has 3,052 and Greinke has 2,979.
Innings pitched
Verlander has pitched 3,571 innings, Scherzer 3,040, Kershaw 2,855 and Greinke 3,389.
Hall of Fame debate
Kershaw has the best chance for unanimous Hall of Fame votes, but Verlander's Astros connection complicates his case.
Legacy impact
Verlander's influence on young pitchers and Scherzer's modern pitching approach define their legacies.
Historical context
The current generation of pitchers faces a different offensive environment than the last generation, affecting their historical comparisons.
Final question
Who is your pick for the greatest pitcher of this generation?
What it means
Kershaw has the best historical stats but Verlander's longevity and Scherzer's impact make the debate complex.
