Al McBean vs. Andy Messersmith — Career Comparison

Andy Messersmith built a career as a starting pitcher and Al McBean as a reliever — different jobs with different demands — but on the metrics that apply to both, a comparison is still worth making. Andy Messersmith led in strikeout rate (K%+ 121 vs 78), skill-based run prevention (DICE+ 104 vs 95), and run prevention (ERA+ 116 vs 113). Al McBean held the edge in walk avoidance (BB%+ 108 vs 95). Keeping the role difference in mind, the edge still goes to Andy Messersmith.