| Nolan Ryan finished second in 1973 (21-16, 2.87, 383 K) to Palmer (22-9, 2.40, 158 K), and third twice: 1974 (22-16, 2.89, 367 K) to Hunter (25-16, 2.49, 143 K); and 1977 (19-16, 2.77, 341 K) to Lyle (13-5, 26 SV, 2.17, 68 K, 137 IP). In 1987 he finished tied for fifth even though he had an 8-16 record. What hurt him? He led the league in walks 8 times in 11 seasons (1972-1982), had double-digit losses 17 times in 20 seasons (1970-1989). He's third on the all-time losses and more than half again #1 on the career walks list. His season high in wins was only 16 after 1977. Lest you think I'm a Ryan hater, I drove up to Cooperstown to see his induction in 1999. But the high negatives of walks and losses will hurt you when judging individual seasons. |
Multiple Cy Young Winners
MLB Rookies of the Year (NL)
Opening Day Lineups: Royals
