The best closers in MLB history: 28. Jason Isringhausen
- 300 total saves
- 3.18 ERA (as reliever)
- 499 games finished
- 82.4 save percentage
Jason Isringhausen may not have been the most lights out closer of all-time, but consistency goes a long way here. Simply put, the 16-year MLB veteran frequently got the job done.
Highlighted by his seven-year run with the St. Louis Cardinals, Isringhausen finished just under 500 games throughout his career including an even 300 converted saves. As a ninth-inning man, Isringhausen converted 82.4 percent of his save opportunities, which ranks top-30 on the all-time list.
The converted starting pitcher found his home as a reliever and closer with the Oakland Athletics in 2000, his sixth season in the big leagues. Isringhausen went on to receive All-Star honors that season, earning 33 saves to the tune of a 3.78 ERA. He then signed as a free agent with the Cardinals and remained a mainstay as the St. Louis closer during a very successful team run.
That plays into his placement on his list. During his time as the closer in St. Louis, the Cardinals won the division four times, made two World Series, and won the championship in 2006. In 2004, the other World Series run, Isringhausen led the NL in games finished (66) and saves (47). As a relief pitcher, Izzy owned a 3.18 ERA and 1.239 WHIP.