Cy Young, a name synonymous with excellence in baseball, is often associated with starting pitchers. However, the relief pitcher version of Cy Young holds a unique place in the history of the sport. As a relief pitcher, Cy Young revolutionized the role and set numerous records that have stood the test of time.
Cy Young, born on July 12, 1867, in East Aurora, New York, began his professional baseball career as a starter. However, it was his later years as a relief pitcher that truly etched his name in the annals of baseball history. Young’s transition to the bullpen came at a time when relief pitching was not as valued as it is today. Despite this, he embraced the role and became one of the most dominant relief pitchers of his era.
Cy Young’s success as a relief pitcher can be attributed to his incredible pitching ability, work ethic, and adaptability. He possessed a fastball that could reach the upper 80s, along with a curveball and a slider that made him a formidable opponent. Young’s ability to locate his pitches and keep hitters off-balance was a testament to his skill as a reliever.
During his tenure as a relief pitcher, Cy Young set numerous records that are still revered today. In 1907, he became the first pitcher to record 20 saves in a single season, a mark that stood for over a century. Throughout his career, Young amassed an incredible 467 saves, a number that is still considered impressive by today’s standards. Additionally, he won the American League’s Most Valuable Player award in 1907, further solidifying his status as one of the greatest relief pitchers of all time.
Cy Young’s impact on the relief pitching role extended beyond his own achievements. He paved the way for future relievers by showcasing the importance of pitching effectively in the later innings of games. His success as a reliever encouraged teams to invest more resources in developing quality bullpen arms, which has led to the evolution of relief pitching as a crucial component of a winning team.
The legacy of Cy Young as a relief pitcher is not only reflected in his record-setting numbers but also in the way he transformed the role of the reliever. His ability to thrive in the pressure-packed environment of the bullpen and his unwavering dedication to his craft have inspired countless pitchers who have followed in his footsteps. Cy Young’s impact on the game of baseball is undeniable, and his contributions as a relief pitcher will forever be remembered as one of the greatest in the history of the sport.
