Kansas City Royals Top Five Starting Pitchers

credit: kshb.com

2. Bret Saberhagen (1984-1991, 39.8 WAR)

For much of the early part of his career, Bret Saberhagen had an interesting statistical anomaly where he was a pitching Superman during odd numbered year, but Clark Kent during even numbered seasons. It was certainly interesting to watch the transformation each year.

Yet, Saberhagen still managed to put together some truly special seasons for the Kansas City Royals. He made two All-Star teams, won two Cy Young awards, a Gold Glove and finished as high as eighth in the MVP vote. His 1989 season was truly special, as Saberhagen posted a 23-6 record with a 2.16 ERA and a 0.961 WHiP, yet somehow did not make the All-Star Game. At least he got his second Cy Young award.

During his tenure with the Royals, Bret Saberhagen posted a 110-78 record with a 3.21 ERA and a 1.134 WHiP. His control, which became legendary during the latter part of his career, was beginning to take hold during his time in Kansas City, as he struck out 3.3 batters for every walk issued.

Bret Saberhagen will be remembered among Kansas City Royals fans for his epic pitching during the 1985 World Series, winning the MVP and pitching a shutout in Game Seven. He was much more than that, and was one of the best pitchers in Royals history.

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