Introduction
The debate between whether Clayton Kershaw is better than Steve Carlton has been a topic of discussion among baseball enthusiasts for years. Both pitchers have left indelible marks on the sport, but how do they compare when their careers and achievements are analyzed comprehensively? In this article, we will delve into their statistics, career achievements, and overall impact on the game to determine who stands above the other.
Debut and Career Achievements
Clayton Kershaw: Kershaw made his Major League debut in 2008 with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He has since earned three Cy Young Awards (2011, 2013, 2014) and one MVP award (2014). Along with his numerous All-Star selections, Kershaw is known for his dominant strikeout ability and low ERA. As of August 2023, he has a career ERA around 2.48 and over 2,800 strikeouts. His remarkable postseason performances, including a World Series title in 2020, make him a standout in the modern era of baseball.
Steve Carlton: Carlton made his Major League debut in 1965, primarily with the Philadelphia Phillies. He was equally dominant, earning four Cy Young Awards (1972, 1977, 1980, 1982) and ten All-Star selections. Carlton was renowned for his durability and longevity, accumulating over 4,000 strikeouts and a career ERA of around 3.22. His significant impact on the game during the 1970s and 1980s, as well as his role in the 1980 Phillies World Series victory, solidified his legacy.
Era and Style
The era in which a pitcher played can significantly influence their effectiveness. Kershaw has thrived in an era where advanced training and analytics have led to lower ERAs and higher strikeout rates. On the other hand, Carlton pitched during a time when the game was more different in terms of hitting and pitching strategies. This era difference adds a layer of complexity to the comparison.
Postseason Performance
Kershaw: Kershaw's postseason career has been debated due to some struggles early in his playoff career. However, recent strong performances, particularly his World Series title in 2020, have helped him redeem himself.
Carlton: While Carlton had phenomenal single-season performances, such as his 1972 season with the 1972 Philadelphia Phillies, he was consistent throughout his career, with seven seasons where his WAR (Win Above Average) was over 5.0. This longevity and consistency are a significant factor in his legacy.
Statistics and Career Total
Clayton Kershaw: Kershaw's better ERA and WHIP (Walks plus Hits per Innings Pitched) are evident. In 2,581 innings, he had a 157 ERA and 524 WAA (Wins Above Average). His 197-87 win-loss record equates to a .694 win percentage, which, when adjusted for all advantages, still leaves him with an impressive .683.
Steve Carlton: Carlton's career statistics also showcase his dominance. His 329-244 win-loss record, with a .574 winning percentage, is strong. His raw win totals are impressive, but his 39.7 WAA in 5,217.2 innings pitched confirms his significance. Carlton's ERA of 115 also indicates his efficiency.
Productivity and Peak Performance
Kershaw: Kershaw's five-year peak, 2011-2015, was a remarkable 36.3 WAR in 1,128 innings, translating to an 8.05 WAR per 250 innings. This period demonstrated his exceptional productivity and dominance.
Carlton: Carlton's best peak was from 1969 to 1973, with a WAR of 29.5 in 1,403 innings, equivalent to a 5.26 WAR per 250 innings. While Carlton's peak is impressive, it is split across two different eras, which affects the overall comparison.
Overall Career Comparisons: Carlton had a 4.03 WAR per 250 innings, ranking him 77th among the top 100 WAR pitchers of all time. Kershaw, with a 7.08 WAR per 250 innings, ranks third in the top 100, just behind Pedro Martinez and Lefty Grove, and just ahead of Roger Clemens.
Conclusion
Determining whether Clayton Kershaw is better than Steve Carlton is a multifaceted analysis. Both pitchers have exemplified excellence in their respective eras, but Kershaw's consistent dominance in a modern era, alongside his remarkable postseason performances and high WAR per 250 innings, suggests that he may have the edge. However, Carlton's iconic 1972 season and his longevity also make him a formidable competitor. Ultimately, the debate remains open, offering a rich context for fans and analysts alike to ponder.