2021 MLB Pitchers: Stats, Analysis & Highlights

Hey baseball fanatics! Let's rewind to 2021 and take a deep dive into the world of MLB pitchers. This season was a wild ride, packed with incredible performances, surprising breakouts, and nail-biting finishes. We'll be looking at the top pitchers, their stats, analyzing their strategies, and reminiscing about the highlights that kept us on the edge of our seats. Get ready to relive some epic moments and discover some hidden gems from the 2021 MLB season!

Top Pitchers of 2021: Who Stood Out?

So, who were the absolute aces of 2021? The competition was fierce, but some pitchers truly shone, dominating hitters and leading their teams to victory. Analyzing the stats and watching the games, a few names repeatedly popped up. These guys weren't just good; they were dominant. They possessed the skill, the grit, and the mental fortitude to perform under pressure. Let's give a shout-out to some of the standouts, shall we?

First off, we've got a guy who was a total force on the mound: Corbin Burnes. This dude had an absolutely phenomenal season for the Brewers. He not only led the league in strikeouts but also sported an insane ERA. Watching him pitch was pure artistry, with his impeccable control and nasty stuff keeping hitters guessing. He was a cornerstone of the Brewers' success, and a major headache for opposing teams. His ability to consistently locate his pitches and his deceptive changeup made him almost unhittable at times. This guy was a true ace in every sense of the word, and he brought a new level of excitement to every start.

Then there was Walker Buehler of the Dodgers, who consistently delivered stellar performances, year after year. Buehler was a constant presence in the Dodgers' rotation, always giving his team a chance to win. His consistency and ability to navigate through tough lineups made him a valuable asset. Buehler's mix of fastball velocity and off-speed pitches kept hitters off balance. He wasn't just about strikeouts; he focused on getting outs and keeping the team in the game. You could always count on him to give his all, which made him a fan favorite and a crucial part of the Dodgers' campaign.

Don't forget Max Scherzer, who made a mid-season move that shook up the league. Joining the Dodgers, he added a whole new dimension to their already strong pitching staff. Scherzer's experience and pure dominance were evident every time he took the mound. His intensity and ability to perform in big games were unmatched, making him a crucial piece in the Dodgers' quest for another World Series title. His presence in the rotation gave opposing hitters nightmares, and his competitiveness made him a true joy to watch. Even at his age, he was still one of the most dominant pitchers in the game, which is a testament to his dedication and skill.

And let's not leave out Robbie Ray, who had a career year with the Blue Jays. His improvement was remarkable, showcasing his resilience and ability to make adjustments. Ray's ability to evolve his approach and find a new level of success was truly inspiring. He demonstrated that with hard work and determination, you can take your game to the next level. His transformation made him one of the most talked-about pitchers of the season. His performance earned him the Cy Young Award in the American League, solidifying his status as one of the best pitchers in the league.

These pitchers were just a few of the many standouts in 2021. Their performances were a testament to their skill, dedication, and the countless hours they put in to perfect their craft. They provided us with some of the most memorable moments of the season. It’s always fun to look back and remember the impact these pitchers had on the game.

Key Stats and Metrics: What the Numbers Tell Us

Alright, stat nerds, let's dive into the numbers! Stats provide valuable insights into a pitcher's performance, but it's important to understand what they really mean. We'll break down the key metrics to see what insights we can gain about the MLB pitchers from 2021. This section will help you understand the true value of the pitchers and why they had such a great impact.

• ERA (Earned Run Average): This is probably the most commonly known stat. It tells us how many earned runs a pitcher allows per nine innings. A lower ERA is better, indicating the pitcher is good at preventing runs. In 2021, a low ERA was a mark of a dominant pitcher. The best pitchers consistently kept their ERA low, often below 3.00, showcasing their ability to shut down opposing offenses. This metric is a quick way to gauge a pitcher's effectiveness and reliability.

• WHIP (Walks plus Hits per Inning Pitched): This is another crucial stat that measures a pitcher's ability to prevent runners from reaching base. A lower WHIP is better, as it means the pitcher is giving up fewer walks and hits per inning. It's a great indicator of a pitcher's control and ability to keep runners off base. In 2021, pitchers with low WHIPs were highly valued, as they consistently kept the opposing team at bay, increasing their team's chances of winning. A good WHIP often reflects a pitcher's ability to command the strike zone and minimize free passes.

• Strikeout Rate: This is the percentage of batters a pitcher strikes out. A high strikeout rate is generally a good thing, as it shows the pitcher's ability to dominate hitters. Strikeouts are a powerful tool for a pitcher to get outs. In 2021, pitchers with high strikeout rates were often seen as some of the most dominant in the game. These guys had the