David Hernandez vs. Phil Niekro — Career Comparison

Phil Niekro built a career as a starting pitcher and David Hernandez as a reliever — different jobs with different demands — but on the metrics that apply to both, a comparison is still worth making. David Hernandez led in strikeout rate (K%+ 105 vs 92), walk avoidance (BB%+ 92 vs 87), and skill-based run prevention (DICE+ 89 vs 87). Phil Niekro held the edge in home run suppression (HR9+ 84 vs 74). Keeping the role difference in mind, the edge still goes to David Hernandez.