Randy Johnson retires

[donmuth]

So Randy Johnson has announced his retirement from baseball.

Where do you think he ranks, overall, amongst the HOF caliber pitchers that came before him?

[GoldenAge50s]

Definitely in the Top 5 lefty's all-time, I think.

[Robextend]

I would say he is arguably in the top 5 lefty pitchers of all time. I would say that (in no order) Waddell, Spahn, Carlton and Koufax round out the Top 5. Honorable mention to Plank, Grove, Ford and Hubbell who anyone can also argue for.

[ChiefBenderForever]

He threw fire and batters were scared of him, not to many pitchers can claim that.

[bcbgcbrcb]

First-ballot HOF'er on a par with Roger Clemens (steroids aside).........

[David W]

Originally Posted by bcbgcbrcb

First-ballot HOF'er on a par with Roger Clemens (steroids aside).........

or maybe not....... 372 K's at age 37?????

Maybe I'm just naturally suspicious.

[rhettyeakley]

Grove is the best lefty of all time in my opinion (especially due to the fact lost several Major League years while under contract w/ the Orioles), having him below Koufax on any list is just crazy. Johnson would certainly be among the top 3-5 Lefty's of all time.
-Rhett

[Leon]

Hi Donny
I would like to move this debate to the main forum, if that is ok with you? I think it's a big enough deal, and good debate, to warrant that. Please let me know and will move it over there. I always wondered how it would be to face him as a batter.

[donmuth]

Leon,

I wouldn't mind you moving it to the main page at all. I put it here since I sometimes see folks complain about non pre-war discussions on the main page. I think Johnson should definitely be mentioned with many of the pre and post-war pitching greats.

Thanks!

Donny