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If you know pitchers, you’ve probably tried MLB Career Wins Leaders – Choose Number or even MLB Career Wins Leaders In Order. Here are the top 10 wins leaders in MLB history.
1. Cy Young – 511 Wins
Cy Young’s name is synonymous with pitching greatness, so much so that the annual award for the best pitchers in the MLB is named in his honor. Young holds the all-time record for most wins with an astounding 511 victories, a number that seems untouchable in the modern era. His career spanned from 1890 to 1911, during which he played for the Cleveland Spiders, St. Louis Perfectos, Boston Americans, and other teams. Known for his incredible endurance, Young completed 749 games, a testament to his dominance and reliability on the mound. His contributions to baseball established him as a cornerstone of pitching excellence.
2. Walter Johnson – 417 Wins
Walter Johnson, known as “The Big Train,” was a powerhouse pitcher with an intimidating fastball. Pitching for the Washington Senators from 1907 to 1927, Johnson amassed 417 wins, a record in the American League that still stands today. His career 110 shutouts remain an MLB record, showcasing his ability to dominate games completely. Johnson was a two-time MVP and won the pitching Triple Crown three times. His impact on the game was so profound that he became one of the first five players inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1936.
3. Pete Alexander – 373 Wins
Known as Grover Cleveland “Pete” Alexander, he was one of the most dominant pitchers in the early 20th century. With 373 wins, Alexander tied Christy Mathewson for the third-most career wins in MLB history. His career spanned from 1911 to 1930, primarily with the Philadelphia Phillies and the Chicago Cubs. Alexander was famous for his accuracy and resilience, leading the league in wins six times. Despite setbacks, including serving in World War I and struggling with epilepsy, he demonstrated unmatched skill and perseverance, earning his place among the all-time greats.
4. Christy Mathewson – 373 Wins
Christy Mathewson, affectionately known as “Big Six,” was a central figure in early baseball history. Playing from 1900 to 1916, primarily with the New York Giants, he was known for his exceptional control and sportsmanship. Mathewson’s 373 career wins place him in a tie with Pete Alexander. He was a pioneer of the screwball, which helped him lead his team to a World Series title in 1905. His consistency and integrity on the field made him a beloved figure, and he was part of the Hall of Fame’s inaugural class alongside legends like Babe Ruth and Ty Cobb.
5. Pud Galvin – 365 Wins
Pud Galvin was one of baseball’s first true pitching stars, earning 365 career wins during his career from 1875 to 1892. Known for his stamina, Galvin often pitched complete games and even multiple games in one day. He pitched over 6,000 innings, a record in his era, and was renowned for his ability to work tirelessly on the mound. Galvin was a pioneering figure in baseball’s early days and a two-time 40-game winner, feats that showcased his work ethic and durability.
6. Warren Spahn – 363 Wins
Warren Spahn was the most successful left-handed pitcher in MLB history, finishing with 363 career wins. Spahn’s career, which lasted from 1942 to 1965, was defined by his powerful fastball and sharp curve. He was a 17-time All-Star and won the Cy Young Award in 1957. Spahn was instrumental in leading the Milwaukee Braves to a World Series victory in 1957. His longevity and consistency allowed him to post 13 seasons with 20 or more wins, a record for left-handed pitchers. Spahn’s legacy as one of the greatest lefties in the game endures to this day.
7. Kid Nichols – 361 Wins
Charles “Kid” Nichols was one of the youngest players to achieve incredible success, racking up 361 wins from 1890 to 1906. Known for his strategic pitching style, Nichols became the youngest pitcher to reach 300 wins. His career achievements were built on his sharp instincts and competitive drive, allowing him to excel in an era when pitching was grueling. Playing for teams like the Boston Beaneaters, Nichols’ contributions to early baseball laid the foundation for the art of pitching.
8. Greg Maddux – 355 Wins
Greg Maddux was known for his precision and strategic prowess on the mound. With 355 wins, Maddux played from 1986 to 2008, primarily with the Atlanta Braves and the Chicago Cubs. His ability to control games with pinpoint accuracy made him a four-time Cy Young Award winner. Maddux was one of the few pitchers to achieve 300 wins and 3,000 strikeouts. His command of the strike zone and baseball intelligence made him one of the most respected and successful pitchers in MLB history.
9. Roger Clemens – 354 Wins
Known as “The Rocket,” Roger Clemens’ career was marked by power and dominance. With 354 wins from 1984 to 2007, Clemens won seven Cy Young Awards, more than any other pitcher. Clemens pitched for the Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, and Houston Astros. His aggressive style and high strikeout count made him a fearsome opponent, and his performance helped his teams secure multiple postseason appearances. Clemens’ legacy remains significant, though his career was later marred by controversies related to performance-enhancing drugs.
10. Tim Keefe – 342 Wins
Tim Keefe was a master of changing speeds, which helped him amass 342 career wins between 1880 and 1893. Playing for teams such as the New York Giants and Philadelphia Quakers, Keefe led the league in wins twice. His adaptability and finesse made him one of the premier pitchers of his era. In 1888, he pitched his team to a National League title, showcasing his clutch performances. Keefe’s strategic use of various pitches set a standard for future generations, and his contributions to early baseball remain celebrated.
