The Best Left-Handed Pitchers Currently in the MLB
Left-handed pitchers have long been the downfall of a many a batter in baseball. Whether batters struggle to locate the ball before it leaves the pitcher's hand or those curveballs coming from the opposite side are just too tough to hit, lefties often dominate from the mound. Moreover, the best left-handed pitchers in baseball right now are some of the top pitchers in the game, period. From starting aces to lights-out closers, these southpaws are serious forces to be reckoned with–and they prove it pitch after pitch.
When you think of the best current left-handed pitchers, you think Clayton Kershaw, Chris Sale, and Arodlis Chapman. Sure, there are plenty of other dominate lefties on the mound right now, but these three have been running things for years. Nevertheless, fellow left handers like David Price, Madison Bumgarner, and Hyun-jin Ryu are all equally as feared by batters—and many of these guys could go down as the greatest left-handed pitchers ever. Of all these aces, however, who do you think is the best lefty pitcher currently playing in the MLB? Could they join the ranks of best pitchers of all time?
Check out the list of current left-handed MLB pitchers below and vote up the hurlers you think are at the top of their class. You can also add other lefties to the list if you think they deserve it.
- 1Los Angeles Dodgers
- Birthplace: Dallas, Texas
Clayton Kershaw stands out as the epitome of a dominant left-handed ace, consistently asserting his mastery over MLB hitters for over a decade. With his trademark knee-buckling curveball and pinpoint control, he's managed to etch his name among the all-time greats, leaving opposing lineups perpetually frustrated. As he continues to weave his magic on the mound, Kershaw solidifies his legacy as an essential cornerstone of the Los Angeles Dodgers' sustained success.
- 2Atlanta Braves
- Birthplace: Santa Monica, California
Max Fried, the young fireballer hailing from the Atlanta Braves organization, has quickly garnered a reputation as a force to be reckoned with on the hill. Utilizing an arsenal that centers around a heavy sinking fastball and a devastatingly sharp curve, he routinely makes mincemeat of opposing batters while demonstrating his limitless potential. As Fried continues to mature and refine his craft, he stands poised to become one of the elite left-handed pitchers in the game for years to come.
- 3Milwaukee Brewers
- Birthplace: Millersville, Maryland
Josh Hader, the lanky relief pitcher for the Milwaukee Brewers, has emerged as the quintessential left-handed weapon out of the bullpen. With his deceptive delivery and devastating slider, he's found a way to keep hitters off-balance and flailing helplessly at the plate time and time again. Hader's combination of raw stuff and fearless approach makes him an invaluable asset for the Brewers, as well as a nightmare matchup for any lefty slugger unfortunate enough to face him.
- 4San Diego Padres
- Birthplace: Seattle, Washington
The ultra-competitive Blake Snell has quickly earned a reputation as one of the premier left-handed starters in the league. Mixing a blazing fastball with a repertoire of diabolical offspeed offerings, the San Diego Padres' ace routinely dissects batters with surgical precision. Snell's unyielding work ethic and hunger for success ensure that he'll continue to serve as an anchor for a talented Padres rotation looking to make some noise in the postseason.
- 5Boston Red Sox
- Birthplace: Lakeland, Florida
The tall, wiry Chris Sale has long been regarded as one of the most dominant southpaws in MLB, thanks in large part to his unorthodox delivery and devastating slider. As he unleashes his arsenal from a unique arm angle, he's able to generate swings and misses at an elite rate, continually leaving hitters grasping at straws. Though currently dealing with injury setbacks, Sale's sheer talent and determination make him a formidable presence on any pitching staff, including the vaunted Boston Red Sox rotation.
- 6
Hyun-jin Ryu
Toronto Blue Jays- Birthplace: Incheon, South Korea
A master craftsman on the mound, Hyun-jin Ryu has quickly endeared himself to both Toronto Blue Jays fans and baseball aficionados far and wide. With pinpoint command and a diverse repertoire, Ryu methodically dismantles opposing lineups by expertly changing speeds and eye levels. His cerebral approach and smooth delivery have allowed the Korean hurler to establish himself as one of the most consistent left-handed starters in the game today.
