Greatest pitcher of all time?

Did you guys know Jim Brown played lacrosse?

 

And that still doesn't answer why people aren't talking about Mariano Rivera, who for my money, has been the best pitcher of this era.

 

He's been the best pitcher when it comes down to one or two innings, but not a full game. No disrespect to Rivera, but I do not believe he belongs in the conversation.

 

Rivera is arguably the best in his role that ever was, but in terms
of comparing him to 30-times-a-year starters, it must be noted that
coming into a game with a lead with three outs to get is a huge
psychological advantage, which in considerable part explains the
superb ERAs of superior closers.

 

I could probably listen to arguments for Rivera. Pitching 1/3rd of the innings, but at a much higher quality and only very important innings, is about a wash.

 

Not only that, but players can work out all year round. 30-40 years ago, players had to work jobs in the offseason, and got out of shape.

 

Yes, that is why there are so many guys who excel at getting those last three easy outs...... :

 

Ross Grimsley

 

Mark Lemongello

 

Of guys I've watched pitch, it would go 1. Seaver, 2. Clemens, 3. Carlton, 4. Maddux, 5. Randy Johnson

 

If you had to choose a post season pitching staff from the last 50 years, my first choice might be Mariano.

Let's say you take Gibson with the first pick, then I would take Rivera. You would take Johnson for example, and I would take Seaver.

I would feel a whole lot better trotting out Rivera at the end of the game than the #2 choice of say Lee Smith.

Rivera has to be in the top 20.

 

You have to have the talent and be mentally-suited, of course, but
it's clearly a mental lift to go into a minimalist situation and
know you don't have to hold anything back for the sixth or seventh inning.