22. “The Ryan Express” Nolan Ryan
Nolan Ryan finished a legendary career that spanned four decades as arguably the greatest power pitcher of all-time.
He broke into the majors with the New York Mets in 1965, where he would establish himself as a hard-throwing, right-handed pitcher with big-time potential. During this time, the New York media gave him the nickname “The Ryan Express” in reference to the 1965 film “Von Ryan’s Express.” The name stuck, and would become a commonly used phrase by sportscasters throughout his career.
Ryan helped the Mets win a World Series title in 1969, but after his first full season in the starting rotation in 1971, he was traded to the California Angels. Upon joining the Angels, he immediately became one of the most feared pitchers in the game.
He led the American League in strikeouts in seven of his eight years with the team, making five All-Star Game appearances during this stretch. After eight years with the Houston Astros and five with the Texas Rangers, Ryan retired as the all-time leader in strikeouts (5,714) and no-hitters (7). He is the only player in MLB history to have his number retired by three different teams.
Ryan’s longevity combined with his status among the most dominant pitchers ever confirms that “The Ryan Express” is a fitting nickname for this MLB legend.
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