I am old school about many things but this discussion isn't one of them. I would have to go with Ryan or Maddux as well. I discount the statistics of the first four on your list due to the fact they played under Jim Crow. I feel that way about all statistics pre 1947. How can you accurately measure greatness when access to the stage is limited? Can you imagine the dominance of Ryan, Randy Johnson, Maddux, Carlton, Seaver in a world where their didn't have to compete against the likes of Mays, Aaron, Robinson, Clemente, and others who would not have been permitted to take the field during Mathewson's and Johnson's time?
I am pleasantly surprised that Clemens appears nowhere on this list. I would hope that Barry Bonds would also be dismissed from any discussion regarding the greatest hitters.
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