Brad Boxberger vs. James Shields — Career Comparison

James Shields built a career as a starting pitcher and Brad Boxberger as a reliever — different jobs with different demands — but on the metrics that apply to both, a comparison is still worth making. Brad Boxberger led in strikeout rate (K%+ 138 vs 102), run prevention (ERA+ 123 vs 88), and skill-based run prevention (DICE+ 108 vs 84). James Shields held the edge in walk avoidance (BB%+ 92 vs 89). Role difference aside, Brad Boxberger holds a clear edge on every meaningful shared measure.