The Top 40 Pitchers in Baseball History, Ranked

#19: Dennis Eckersley

Dennis Eckersley had two careers: one as a solid starter, the other as a transcendent closer. As a reliever, he redefined the role. With a signature sidearm sling, pinpoint control, and a death-dealing slider, “Eck” became the first pitcher to notch a 20-win and 50-save season.

In 1992, he won both Cy Young and MVP. The Oakland A’s didn’t just hand him the ball—they gave him the endgame. His swagger, mullet, and catchphrases added flair, but the man was lethal. For hitters, it was simple: If you heard “Enter Eck,” the game was already over.