Steve Carlton is often hailed as the greatest pitcher in Philadelphia Phillies history. Over a remarkable 15-year tenure, he secured 241 wins, struck out a staggering 3,031 batters, was named to seven All-Star teams, and won the prestigious Cy Young Award four times. However, even legendary athletes face the realities of aging and injuries.
By 1985, at the age of 40, injuries sidelined Carlton for much of the season, limiting him to just 16 starts. Despite a hopeful return in 1986, his performance deteriorated, culminating in a release after posting a 6.18 ERA by June. Carlton briefly joined the San Francisco Giants but quickly found himself announcing his retirement later that season after a rough debut with the Chicago White Sox. Still driven, he attempted comebacks with the Indians and Twins but ultimately concluded his storied career at age 44 in 1989.
Fast forward to 2025, and another prominent pitcher, Justin Verlander, finds himself in a similar situation. Celebrated for multiple Cy Young Awards, Verlander experienced a difficult 2024 season with the Astros, recording a 5.48 ERA. Seeking to extend his career, he signed a one-year deal with the Giants, but inconsistent performances and injuries have marred his efforts. His current stats show he’s yet to secure a victory this season, reflecting the struggles commonly faced by aging athletes.
The Phillies are poised to face Verlander in an upcoming game, creating anticipation among fans about potentially seeing a struggling veteran pushed closer to retirement. The parallel between Carlton and Verlander’s experiences highlights the challenges athletes face as they transition beyond their prime years.
In other news regarding the Phillies, Oracle Park has long been a difficult venue for the team, with a poor cumulative record of 7-24 over the last decade. Despite their struggles against the Giants, who currently stand at 49-42 in the NL West, there’s optimism that the Phillies can harness their talent for a series victory. With Robbie Ray on the mound for San Francisco, the match-up is crucial, but the Phillies maintain the ability to surprise when performing at their highest level.
This ongoing saga of sports legends and their eventual decline serves as a reminder of the relentless passage of time—not just in baseball, but in life itself, highlighting resilience and the hope of rejuvenation.