Al Downing vs. Darold Knowles — Career Comparison

Al Downing built a career as a starting pitcher and Darold Knowles as a reliever — different jobs with different demands — but on the metrics that apply to both, a comparison is still worth making. Al Downing led in strikeout rate (K%+ 99 vs 67), skill-based run prevention (DICE+ 98 vs 88), and walk avoidance (BB%+ 91 vs 90). Darold Knowles held the edge in run prevention (ERA+ 117 vs 112). Role difference aside, Al Downing holds a clear edge on every meaningful shared measure.