The Top 40 Pitchers in Baseball History, Ranked

#38: Orel Hershiser

In 1988, Orel Hershiser was untouchable. He threw 59 consecutive scoreless innings—still the MLB record—and then bulldozed through the postseason, earning World Series MVP honors. Nicknamed “Bulldog” by Tommy Lasorda, Hershiser wasn’t just gutsy—he was graceful.

He won a Cy Young, a Gold Glove, and left hitters guessing across 18 seasons. Hershiser wasn’t built for intimidation. He was built for execution. He conquered pressure, silenced batters, and led by calm, precise command. In ’88, he didn’t just win. He overwhelmed the game.