Boston Red Sox: Ten Greatest Starting Pitchers of All-Time

#10: Mel Parnell

Mar 22, 2014; Lake Buena Vista, FL, USA; A Boston Red Sox hat, sunglasses, and baseballs sit in the dugout during the game against the Atlanta Braves at Champion Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Foldy-USA TODAY Sports

Never as dominant as the others on this list were, Mel Parnell enjoyed an impressive 10-year career spent entirely in the Boston Red Sox organization. The selection of Parnell at number 10 on this list, has a lot to do with his impressive longevity with the Red Sox.

Primarily a starter, Parnell finished his career 123-75 record, and a rock-solid 3.50 ERA. The left-handed pitcher was a solid force in the Red Sox rotation throughout his career from 1947-1956.

Parnell was extremely consistent throughout most of his career. Throwing out his five appearance debut in 1947, Parnell almost always finished with an ERA between 3.00 and 4.00. Sometimes on the high-side sometimes on the low side, but almost always right where you want to be. There were only two exceptions to this in Parnell’s career.

The first came in 1949, which was the best season of his career. Parnell finished led the league in wins with a 25-7 record, while also showing a league-leading 2.77 ERA. He also showed great durability that season, leading the league in complete games (27) and innings pitched (295.1).

Parnell continued to pitch well for the next three years, before another 20 win season in 1953. After going 21-8 with a 3.06 ERA that season, Parnell began to fade, as injuries became an issue.

He was however able to come back strong with 20 starts in 1956. His 7-6 record and 3.77 ERA were nothing too spectacular, but his no-hitter in July of that season helped him go out on a high note.

Parnell retired following that 1956 season. He was never considered Baseball Hall of Fame worthy, but he was inducted into the Red Sox Hall of Fame in 1997.

Next: Short, but Oh So Sweet