put it into perspective
The all-time leader in "lowest opponent batting average": #1 Nolan Ryan with .203, then #2 Koufax with .205
Basically, Nolan Ryan was the most difficult pitcher of all time to get a hit against.
Koufax had the advantage of a raised pitching mound - big help. Nolan Ryan came along after they lowered the pitching mound to make it easier for hitters.
How many no-hitters would Ryan have if he played with a higher mound like Koufax? Maybe 10, 11 or more?
The stupid ass Cy Young voters had a bone to pick with Ryan. Case in point: 1973 Ryan broke Koufax' single season K record with 383, had not one, but 2 no-hitters, was around 20 wins for the lowly Angels. And they gave the Cy Young to Palmer. Makes me sick to my stomach. As a kid I was mortified by the voters decision - as an adult, still am mortified. Could you imagine a pitcher with those season credentials not winning the Cy Young.
Yes, there is sometimes corruption in baseball. Yes, there are media darlings, aka Palmer.
Plain & Simple - Nolan Ryan had the best stuff of any pitcher, ever.
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