Top 25 MLB pitching seasons of all time

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Mar 11, 2017; Miami, FL, USA; Canada pitcher Eric Gagne (38) throws a pitch in the eighth inning against Colombia during the 2017 World Baseball Classic at Marlins Park. Colombia won 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports /

24. Eric Gagne, 2003

The Numbers: 55 saves, 1.20 ERA, 15 SO/9, 2 home runs allowed in 82.1 innings, NL Cy Young

With the knowledge that Eric Gagne may not have been fully on the up and up when it comes to his use of PEDs, his 2003 season loses some of its luster. For a three-year period, Gagne was the most successful closer in MLB history, and his record streak of 84 straight saves is nearly 30 games clear of second place.

After failing as a starting pitcher in the first three years of his career, Gagne reinvented himself as a relief pitcher. He threw an overpowering fastball, slider, and splitter. Combined with his unique delivery, Gagne’s pitches were virtually unhittable.

Gagne’s career peaked in 2003 when he held opponents to a .133/.199/.176 line. He did not blow a save, and allowed earned runs in only two save attempts. Gagne struck out the side in 11 appearances and only went without a strikeout in six appearances.

A second brush with Tommy John surgery in the 2005 season brought Gagne’s run of dominance to a screeching halt. His most effective season after surgery came in 2007 when he was able to make 54 appearances for the Rangers and Red Sox. He pitched poorly for the Brewers in 2008 and has not been back to the MLB level since, making a few short comeback attempts in independent ball. After his career ended, Gagne admitted to using HGH in an attempt to recover from a knee injury.

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