There are several ways for a pitcher to be deemed “successful” in his career.
Closers, for instance, are judged mainly on their save conversion percentage and total saves, among other statistical measurements. Middle relievers can look at holds and inherited runners as a standard. Starting pitchers have myriad stats to determine their level of success.
To garner this success, hurlers typically use a combination of speed, control and a good mix of pitches through a given outing on the mound. Of course, not all of the three are required.
Greg Maddux made a Hall of Fame career by using pinpoint control and a good mix of pitchers, but very rarely reached 90 mph. Randy Johnson, meanwhile, lit up radar guns but featured two pitches for the most part—a fastball and a nasty slider.
But sometimes, there comes along a pitcher who has done well in the big leagues but might not posses some or any of the aforementioned qualities. So, who are these pitchers, and they able to sustain their levels of success without velocity, control or pitch variety? Here’s a look at some current MLB pitchers who have reached a level of success … somehow.