best cubs pitchers

3 min read 25-02-2025

The Chicago Cubs, with their storied history and passionate fanbase, boast a rich legacy of incredible pitching talent. From legendary hurlers who defined eras to modern-day aces, the Cubs' pitching rotation has consistently produced some of baseball's finest. This article explores some of the best Cubs pitchers, considering their statistical achievements, impact on the team, and lasting legacy.

Defining "Best": A Multifaceted Approach

Before diving into specific names, it's important to acknowledge that determining the "best" pitchers involves more than just raw statistics. Factors like era, team context, and overall impact on the franchise all play crucial roles. While we'll use statistics as a significant measure, we'll also consider a pitcher's contribution to the team's success and their lasting place in Cubs lore.

The Hall of Fame and Beyond: Cubs Pitching Legends

Several Cubs pitchers have earned their place in the Baseball Hall of Fame, a testament to their exceptional careers. These are the names that immediately spring to mind when discussing the best of the best:

1. Grover Alexander (1911-1926): A true legend of the game, Alexander's dominance in the early 20th century is undeniable. His career spanned multiple teams, but his time with the Cubs was marked by consistent excellence. A master of deception and control, Alexander's career numbers reflect his skill, and his impact on baseball is immeasurable.

2. Mordecai "Three Finger" Brown (1903-1916): Nicknamed for his pitching style, Brown was a workhorse and a key figure in the Cubs' dominance in the early 1900s. His control and stamina were legendary. His contributions to the team's success in the Dead Ball era solidified his legacy.

3. Greg Maddux (1986-1992): While Maddux's Hall of Fame career is mostly associated with the Atlanta Braves, his early years with the Cubs were formative. His remarkable control and pinpoint accuracy were already evident, laying the foundation for his future greatness.

Post-Hall of Fame Greats: Modern Cubs Aces

While the Hall of Famers represent the pinnacle of Cubs pitching, several other pitchers deserve recognition for their significant contributions to the team:

1. Fergie Jenkins (1966-1973, 1982-1983): A powerful right-hander, Jenkins was a cornerstone of the Cubs' pitching staff for many years. His consistency and ability to get batters out made him a crucial part of the team. He is considered by many to be among the all-time best to wear a Cubs uniform.

2. Kerry Wood (1998-2008): A fiery young pitcher, Wood’s career was tragically cut short by injuries. Despite this, he remains an iconic figure for his incredible talent and unforgettable 20-strikeout game against the Houston Astros.

3. Mark Prior (2002-2006): Another power pitcher whose potential was tragically cut short due to injury, Prior showcased electric stuff during his time in Chicago. His moments of brilliance solidified his place in Cubs folklore.

4. Carlos Zambrano (2001-2011): Zambrano was a fiery presence on the mound, known for his dominant performances as well as his occasional emotional outbursts. A strong starting pitcher with a fierce competitiveness, he remains a memorable figure in Cubs' history.

The Modern Era and Beyond

Recent years have seen a resurgence of talented pitchers for the Chicago Cubs. While it’s too early to definitively place them among the all-time greats, pitchers like Jake Arrieta (who won the 2015 NL Cy Young Award), Jon Lester, and Yu Darvish have significantly contributed to the team's success and left their mark on Cubs baseball.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Cubs Pitching Excellence

From the legendary Grover Alexander and Mordecai "Three Finger" Brown to the modern-day stars, the Chicago Cubs have a long and storied history of outstanding pitchers. This list is just a glimpse into the exceptional talent that has graced the mound at Wrigley Field. While debating who is definitively “best” will continue amongst fans, the legacy of Cubs pitching excellence is undeniable.