54. Bob Feller
Bob Feller was one of the greatest pitchers in history, and had he not lost three and a half years due to his time in the Navy during World War 2, he could have been one of the five best to ever play the game.
A hard thrower with occasionally questionable control, Feller led the American League in strikeouts seven times, and also led the league in walks four times. Feller also led the league in wins six times, and won the pitching Triple Crown in 1940 when he was 27-11 with a 2.61 ERA and 246 strikeouts. An eight time All-Star, Feller placed in the top ten in the MVP ballot six times, finishing as high as second in that magical 1940 season.
Overall, Feller had a 266-162 record with a 3.25 ERA and a 1.316 WHiP. He struck out 2581 batters against 1764 walks. He fired three no hitters, including the only no hitter ever thrown on Opening Day. As impressive as those numbers are, one has to wonder what Feller would have accomplished if he did not miss three and a half years of his prime due to military service.
After his career, Feller remained active in the game. He was the first President of the Player’s Association, and spent over forty years in public relations for the Tribe. Great with the public, Feller would go out of his way to sign autographs and take a moment or two to speak with the fans.
A great pitcher, and possibly a greater ambassador, Bob Feller made an impact upon everyone he met. He also made quite the impact on those he faced, as his blazing fastball is still the stuff of legend.
Next: The Big Hurt