Steven Norman Carlton, born on December 22, 1944, is widely regarded as one of the greatest left-handed pitchers in Major League Baseball (MLB) history. Over a career that spanned from 1965 to 1988, Carlton played for six different teams, but his most notable achievements came during his time with the Philadelphia Phillies. Known for his powerful fastball and devastating slider, Carlton earned four Cy Young Awards, a record at the time, and was instrumental in leading the Phillies to their first-ever World Series championship in 1980. His dominance on the mound made him a feared opponent and a key figure in the Phillies' success during the 1970s and early 1980s.

Carlton's career was marked by several remarkable records and milestones. He ranks second all-time in strikeouts for a left-handed pitcher, with 4,136, and is fourth overall in MLB history. Additionally, he holds the second-most career wins for a left-handed pitcher, with 329 victories. One of his most extraordinary feats came in 1972 when he won 27 games for a Phillies team that only managed 59 wins in total, meaning Carlton accounted for nearly half of the team's victories that season. This performance earned him his first Cy Young Award and solidified his reputation as one of the most dominant pitchers of his era.

In addition to his strikeout and win totals, Carlton was known for his incredible durability and work ethic. He is the last National League pitcher to win 25 or more games in a single season and the last pitcher in MLB to throw more than 300 innings in a season, a testament to his endurance and ability to consistently perform at a high level. However, Carlton also holds the dubious distinction of having the most career balks in MLB history, with 90, a record that still stands today. Despite this, his overall contributions to the game far outweigh any negative marks, and his legacy as one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history remains intact.

Carlton's achievements were recognized with his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1994, cementing his place among the all-time greats. His impact on the game, particularly during his time with the Phillies, is still felt today, and his name is synonymous with pitching excellence. Carlton's combination of power, precision, and longevity made him a true legend in the sport, and his records and accolades continue to inspire future generations of pitchers.

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