Strasil42 wrote:Havok1517 wrote:I really don't think its possible for a closer to be a "big game pitcher" since they usually only get 3 outs. For the definition of "big game pitcher" please see Curt Schilling & Andy Pettitte.
Rivera has gotten a ton of saves where he pitched for more than 3 outs.
Please see his career numbers.![]()
Andy Pettitte has an ERA over 4 in the playoffs and is 3-4 in the world series.
I would consider John Smoltz, Randy Johnson, Mariano Rivera, and Curt Schilling all big game pitchers.
Well, unless he's pitching 5-7 innings he's not a "big game pitcher". The word "usually" is not all-encompassing. So, I did take in account the times Rivera did pitch for more than 3 outs, which occured far less than simply closing the final 9th inning. Also, I do agree with your additions except Rivera (I already mentioned Schilling).
(Source: Wikipedia) When Pettitte started game two of the 2005 World Series, he was tied for second for most World Series starts. Along with Christy Mathewson and Waite Hoyt, Pettitte has started in 11 of the Fall Classics. Whitey Ford is in front with 22 starts. Pettitte has played in seven different World Series (six with the Yankees and one with the Astros) and been on the winning end of 18 postseason series - both of which are tops among active players.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andy_Pettitte
Obviously, Pettitte kept the Yankees in games and was a key element to them winning those recent championships. When Joe Torre and Reggie Jackson were both asked if they could choose 1 pitcher to win 1 game, their answer was...Andy Pettitte.
