Every team has one, but not all qualify. Regardless of what you call them (Ace, Number One), they are a rare commodity in Major League Baseball. How many pitchers would you label as "Number One Starters"? Send me an email with your list of pitchers who qualify.
Here's my list of qualifications. A pitcher may not have to meet every point, but he should be able to fit within the general guidelines.
1. The ability to consistently dominate a game. Not just occasionally but with regularity. This is a necessity.
2. Mental toughness. An Ace must be able to step it up during big games. He must have no fear when he steps on the rubber at any time.
3. On the flip side, he should be intimidating to opposing hitters. They should be afraid. Or if not afraid, there should be some type of mental edge that the pitcher has on them.
4. The most important criteria: They should win, win, win. A low ERA with a 14-14 record does not make one an Ace.
5. Some longevity at the above criteria.
Going by this criteria, the list is pretty short. Keep in mind, I am not using these rules in any hard and fast way. So here's my list:
1. Randy Johnson ARI. He's probably the most intimidating pitcher in the game.
2. Pedro Martinez BOS. The most dominating pitcher in the game.
3. Greg Maddux ATL. Win, baby, win.
4. Kevin Brown LA. And last year was a bad year.
5. Curt Schilling PHI. Put him on another team and his career win total would be double.
Borderline candidates. Either former Aces or future Aces or guys who are just a notch below.
1. Orlando Hernandez NYY
2. David Cone NYY
3. Roger Clemens NYY
4. Tom Glavine ATL
5. John Smoltz ATL
6. David Wells TOR
7. Mike Mussina BAL
8. Freddy Garcia SEA
9. Rick Ankiel STL
10. Denny Neagle CIN
11. Bartolo Colon CLE
12. Kerry Wood CHI CUBS
13. Brad Radke MIN
