Starting Pitcher: Christy Mathewson (1900-1916)
Not only is Christy Mathewson the greatest pitcher in Giants history, but he may be the greatest pitcher in the history of Major League Baseball.
Beloved by the fans and his teammates, Mathewson was also a favorite of combative manager John McGraw. In fact, Mathewson was one of only two photographs that hung in the manager’s office. Given Mathewson’s success, and his quiet nature, it should not be a surprise.
Year after year, Mathewson will fill up the leaderboard. He won the pitching triple crown twice, doing so in 1905 and 1908. A five time strikeout leader, Mathewson also had the best ERA in the National League five times, and led the league in wins on four occasions. Mathewson also had impeccable command with his strong arm, having the fewest walks per nine innings in seven of his 17 year career.
Overall with the Giants, Mathewson produced an incredible 372-188 record with a 2.12 ERA and a 1.057 WHiP. He struck out 2504 batters against 847 walks in 4779.2 innings of work, pitching 434 complete games. Mathewson even notched 30 saves with the Giants, even leading the league in his incredible 1908 season.
Considered to be the most deserving pitcher to be in the Hall of Fame based on Bill James‘ Hall of Fame Standards Test, there has not been another pitcher like Christy Mathewson in the century since he hung up his cleats. Chances are, in another century, Mathewson will still be in a class by himself.