The Best Current MLB Pitchers

Over 9.2K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Current MLB Pitchers
Voting Rules
Only active pitchers. No minor leaguers or recently retired players

Who are the best current MLB pitchers? Who's the most dominant pitcher of the 2021 season? That remains to be seen, but for now, these pitchers are among the best. They are also among the best current baseball players. Vote for the current MLB pitchers you believe are the best, vote down any who aren't performing well and feel free to add new potential breakout stars, too. You can also re-rank this list in any order you choose.

Any list of the best current MLB pitchers should include one of the highest paid pitchers in the MLB, Justin Verlander. Other great starters on the list include Clayton Kershaw (one of the best left-handed pitchers), Zack Greinke, and the Cubs'' Jake Arrieta. But this list is not limited to the best starting pitchers. Closers like Aroldis Chapman and Trevor Rosenthal deserve as much credit to their teams’s success as anyone on the starting rotation. 

That's what this list is about: The MLB pitchers that you think are worth the big bucks, because they are, quite simply, the best. Will any of the current good MLB pitchers on this list ultimately wind up on a list of the greatest baseball players of all time? For now, cast your votes for who you think are the best pitchers in baseball right now.

Most divisive: Zack Greinke
Ranked by
  • Jacob deGrom
    1

    Jacob deGrom

    New York Mets
    3,715 votes
    • Birthplace: DeLeon Springs, Florida
    • Bats: Left

    Jacob deGrom has undoubtedly cemented his position as one of the most dominant pitchers in the MLB, thanks to his unparalleled ability to consistently keep hitters guessing with a lethal mix of power and precision. His blazing fastball, which often touches triple digits, complements his repertoire of devastating off-speed pitches, proving nearly unhittable for opposing batters. Furthermore, deGrom's unflappable demeanor on the mound and relentless competitive spirit have not only earned him the respect of his peers but have also played a significant role in elevating the New York Mets' overall performance.

  • Justin Verlander
    2
    Houston Astros
    3,258 votes
    • Birthplace: Manakin-Sabot, Virginia
    • Bats: Right

    A feared adversary on the mound, Justin Verlander's name is synonymous with excellence in the realm of pitching. Possessing a rare blend of longevity and sustained success, Verlander's unwavering focus and remarkable ability to adapt his style of play have allowed him to maintain his position as one of the game's true elite. Moreover, his contributions to both the Detroit Tigers and Houston Astros, particularly during crucial postseason battles, demonstrate his invaluable impact on the game and solidify his status as a living legend.

  • Max Scherzer
    3
    New York Mets
    4,107 votes
    • Birthplace: St. Louis, Missouri
    • Bats: Right

    Max Scherzer's fierce tenacity and eye-popping skill set make him a force to be reckoned with whenever he takes the hill. With a repertoire that features a menacing fastball, deceptive changeup, and wicked slider, Scherzer consistently befuddles hitters and maintains a stranglehold on his adversaries. His imposing presence on the mound, coupled with his unyielding determination to excel, has not only spurred the Washington Nationals to new heights but has also set a benchmark for excellence among his contemporaries.

  • Gerrit Cole
    4
    New York Yankees
    2,758 votes
    • Birthplace: Newport Beach, California
    • Bats: Right

    Impacting teams like a whirlwind, Gerrit Cole's pitching prowess has been nothing short of awe-inspiring since his major league debut. Boasting a powerful arm that can deliver blistering fastballs and knee-buckling breaking balls alike, Cole's pitch selection and location are often the bane of his opponents' existence. Additionally, his unwavering focus and ability to thrive under pressure have made him a cornerstone of success for both the Houston Astros and New York Yankees, making him a coveted asset in the world of professional baseball.

  • Clayton Kershaw
    5
    Los Angeles Dodgers
    4,911 votes
    • Birthplace: Dallas, Texas
    • Bats: Left

    Widely regarded as one of the best pitchers of his generation, Clayton Kershaw has etched his name among the all-time greats due to his remarkable consistency and mastery of his craft. Possessing pinpoint control and a devastating curveball that keeps hitters off-balance, Kershaw's exceptional skills on the mound have resulted in a lasting impact on the Los Angeles Dodgers' success. Furthermore, his leadership traits and tireless work ethic serve as a shining example for aspiring pitchers everywhere, solidifying his place as a true ambassador of the game.

  • Corbin Burnes
    6
    Milwaukee Brewers
    425 votes
    • Birthplace: Bakersfield, California
    • Bats: Right

    Corbin Burnes has rapidly ascended the ranks of MLB pitchers, demonstrating an ability to dominate opposing lineups with his dynamic arsenal of pitches. Armed with a lively fastball, biting slider, and deceptive changeup, Burnes consistently confounds hitters with his movement and precision. His rapid rise to prominence has brought newfound excitement to the Milwaukee Brewers, and his performances suggest that his star will only continue to shine brighter in the years to come.