If you're a fan of the New York Yankees, you're probably familiar with some of their best pitchers of the last decade, like CC Sabathia, Masahiro Tanaka, and Luis Severino. But there's one name that often goes unnoticed, and that's Hiroki Kuroda.
Kuroda joined the Yankees in 2012 after four solid seasons with the Los Angeles Dodgers. At the age of 37, many people doubted how well he would adjust to the American League and the hitter-friendly Yankee Stadium. But Kuroda proved them all wrong by becoming one of the most consistent and reliable starters in the league.
During his three seasons with the Yankees, Kuroda put up some impressive numbers. He posted a 38-33 record with a 3.44 ERA and a 1.15 WHIP. He also averaged 201 innings and 150 strikeouts per season while only walking 2.1 batters per nine innings. In fact, he ranked among the top 10 in the American League in ERA, WHIP, innings pitched, and WAR for pitchers in each of his first two seasons with the Yankees.
But Kuroda was much more than just numbers. He was a big-game pitcher who thrived under pressure, with a 2.81 ERA in September and October games with the Yankees, and a 2.57 ERA in four postseason starts. He had some standout performances, like pitching seven scoreless innings against the Baltimore Orioles in Game 3 of the 2012 ALDS and seven innings of two-run ball against the Detroit Tigers in Game 2 of the 2012 ALCS.
Despite not being flashy or dominant, Kuroda was always steady and dependable. He never missed a start due to injury, and he never complained about his role or contract. He was a consummate professional who earned the respect of his teammates, coaches, and fans. A true iron man.
But all good things must come to an end. After the 2014 season, Kuroda left the Yankees to return to Japan, where he pitched for two more seasons with his original team, the Hiroshima Carp. He retired after the 2016 season at the age of 41, with a combined record of 124-105 and a 3.45 ERA in NPB and MLB.
So, even though Kuroda didn't win any awards or championships with the Yankees, he was still one of the best pitchers they ever had in recent years. He was an unsung hero who deserves more recognition and appreciation for his contributions to the team. So, next time you think of the Yankees' best pitchers, be sure to remember Hiroki Kuroda!
