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The Best Left-Handed Pitchers Currently in the MLB

Left-handed pitchers have long been the downfall of a many a batter in baseball. Whether batters struggle to locate the ball before it leaves the pitcher's hand or those curveballs coming from the opposite side are just too tough to hit, lefties often dominate from the mound. Moreover, the best left-handed pitchers in baseball right now are some of the top pitchers in the game, period. From starting aces to lights-out closers, these southpaws are serious forces to be reckoned with–and they prove it pitch after pitch. When you think of the best current left-handed pitchers, you think Clayton Kershaw, Chris Sale, and Arodlis Chapman. Sure, there are plenty of other dominate lefties on the mound right now, but these three have been running things for years. Nevertheless, fellow left handers like David Price, Madison Bumgarner, and Hyun-jin Ryu are all equally as feared by batters—and many of these guys could go down as the greatest left-handed pitchers ever. Of all these aces, however, who do you think is the best lefty pitcher currently playing in the MLB? Could they join the ranks of best pitchers of all time? Check out the list of current left-handed MLB pitchers below and vote up the hurlers you think are at the top of their class. You can also add other lefties to the list if you think they deserve it.

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  1. 1

    Max Fried

    Max Fried, the young fireballer hailing from the Atlanta Braves organization, has quickly garnered a reputation as a force to be reckoned with on the hill. Utilizing an arsenal that centers around a heavy sinking fastball and a devastatingly sharp curve, he routinely makes mincemeat of opposing batters while demonstrating his limitless potential. As Fried continues to mature and refine his craft, he stands poised to become one of the elite left-handed pitchers in the game for years to come.

    65% upvoted
  2. 2

    Chris Sale

    The tall, wiry Chris Sale has long been regarded as one of the most dominant southpaws in MLB, thanks in large part to his unorthodox delivery and devastating slider. As he unleashes his arsenal from a unique arm angle, he's able to generate swings and misses at an elite rate, continually leaving hitters grasping at straws. Though currently dealing with injury setbacks, Sale's sheer talent and determination make him a formidable presence on any pitching staff, including the vaunted Boston Red Sox rotation.

    65% upvoted
  3. 3

    Blake Snell

    The ultra-competitive Blake Snell has quickly earned a reputation as one of the premier left-handed starters in the league. Mixing a blazing fastball with a repertoire of diabolical offspeed offerings, the San Diego Padres' ace routinely dissects batters with surgical precision. Snell's unyielding work ethic and hunger for success ensure that he'll continue to serve as an anchor for a talented Padres rotation looking to make some noise in the postseason.

    63% upvoted
  4. 4

    Josh Hader

    Josh Hader, the lanky relief pitcher for the Milwaukee Brewers, has emerged as the quintessential left-handed weapon out of the bullpen. With his deceptive delivery and devastating slider, he's found a way to keep hitters off-balance and flailing helplessly at the plate time and time again. Hader's combination of raw stuff and fearless approach makes him an invaluable asset for the Brewers, as well as a nightmare matchup for any lefty slugger unfortunate enough to face him.

    61% upvoted
  5. 5

    Aroldis Chapman

    Armed with a fastball that frequently clocks in excess of 100 mph, it's no wonder Aroldis Chapman has left many a batter feeling overwhelmed and overmatched. The flame-throwing closer has been a staple in the New York Yankees bullpen for years, utilizing his electric stuff and intimidating presence to slam the door on countless victories. Chapman's ability to continually dial up the heat has cemented his status as one of the most feared left-handed relievers in MLB history.

    53% upvoted
  6. 6

    Jesús Luzardo

    Jesús Luzardo, the young phenom from the Oakland Athletics, possesses an enticing mix of raw talent and tantalizing potential. Featuring a lively arm and a deep repertoire, including an electric fastball and a befuddling changeup, Luzardo's considerable skills have made him one of the most promising left-handed arms in the league. As he continues to hone his craft, there's no telling just how high this budding star can soar.

    47% upvoted
  7. 7

    Yusei Kikuchi

    Having crossed the Pacific to showcase his talents in MLB, Yusei Kikuchi has displayed a fascinating mix of skill, grit, and potential as a member of the Seattle Mariners. Armed with an electric fastball, an effective slider, and a deceptive changeup, Kikuchi has continually battled to find his footing against the world's best hitters. As he navigates the challenges of adjusting to life in the big leagues, Kikuchi's ceiling as a dominant left-handed starter remains an enticing prospect for Mariners fans.

    47% upvoted
  8. 8

    Madison Bumgarner

    Madison Bumgarner, a towering and imposing presence on the mound, has long been a stalwart starting pitcher in the MLB. His blend of a deceptive delivery, pinpoint control, and an assortment of wicked offerings, including a devastating cutter, has made him a nightmare for hitters to deal with. Having etched his name in baseball lore with his legendary postseason performances, Bumgarner remains a force to be reckoned with as a member of the Arizona Diamondbacks.

    44% upvoted
  9. 9

    Trevor Rogers

    A rising star in the Miami Marlins organization, Trevor Rogers has quickly begun to make a name for himself among left-handed pitchers. Boasting a potent fastball-changeup combination, along with an effective slider, he has consistently baffled hitters while showcasing his immense potential. As Rogers continues to develop and refine his craft, the Marlins have good reason to be excited about their southpaw's future.

    45% upvoted
  10. 10

    John Means

    A breakout performer for the Baltimore Orioles, John Means has established himself as a reliable force at the front of their rotation. His advanced command of his four-seam fastball, changeup, and breaking pitches has allowed him to consistently outsmart and overpower hitters. With his smooth delivery and poise in the face of adversity, Means serves as a beacon of hope for an Orioles franchise desperate for bright spots.

    44% upvoted