Last Updated: June 17th, 2026 by Michael Schatz
The Kansas City Royals have seen some incredible pitching talent throughout their history. From Cy Young winners to record-setting closers, these ten pitchers have left an indelible mark on the franchise. Let’s take a look at the most dominant arms to ever take the mound for Kansas City.
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1. Bret Saberhagen: The Two-Time Cy Young Winner
Saberhagen dominated during his Royals tenure (1984-1991), posting a stellar 110-78 record with a 3.21 ERA. His 1989 season was particularly remarkable, leading the league with a 23-6 record and 2.16 ERA. The ace pitcher earned two Cy Young Awards (1985, 1989) and threw a no-hitter against the White Sox in 1991. His 1985 World Series MVP performance helped secure Kansas City’s first championship.
2. Kevin Appier: The Franchise WAR Leader
Appier’s remarkable 47.1 WAR leads all Royals pitchers, demonstrating his incredible value to the franchise. During his prime years (1989-1999, 2003-2004), he compiled a 115-92 record with a 3.49 ERA. His standout 1993 season saw him lead the American League with a 2.56 ERA, finishing third in Cy Young voting. Appier ranks second in team history with 1,458 strikeouts.
3. Dan Quisenberry: The Submarine Sensation
“Quiz” revolutionized the closer role with his unique submarine delivery style. His career 2.55 ERA remains a Royals record, along with 238 saves. He dominated the American League, leading in saves five times between 1980-1985. His exceptional 160 ERA+ stands as the best in franchise history, making him one of the most effective relievers of his era.
4. Paul Splittorff: The All-Time Wins Leader
Splittorff’s 166 victories top the Royals’ all-time wins list, achieved during his impressive 15-year career (1970-1984). He maintained a solid 3.81 ERA across 2,554.2 innings and played a crucial role in the team’s first pennant win in 1980. His durability was remarkable, with eight seasons of 30+ starts.
5. Dennis Leonard: The Three-Time 20-Game Winner
Leonard’s impressive 13-year career (1974-1986) yielded 144 wins and a 3.70 ERA. He achieved three 20-win seasons (1977, 1978, 1980) and completed 103 games. His 1,323 strikeouts rank third in team history, and his 25.7 WAR places him among the franchise’s elite pitchers.
6. Mark Gubicza: The Durable All-Star
A two-time All-Star, Gubicza ranks third in team history with 38.0 WAR. His Royals career (1984-1996) included 132 wins, a 3.91 ERA, and 1,366 strikeouts. His stellar 1988 season saw him go 20-8 with a 2.70 ERA, earning him a third-place finish in Cy Young voting.
7. Zack Greinke: The Cy Young Sensation
Greinke’s 2009 Cy Young season stands as one of the greatest pitching performances in team history, featuring a 2.16 ERA and 242 strikeouts. During his first Royals stint (2004-2010), he accumulated 29.8 WAR and established himself as one of baseball’s elite pitchers, later returning to continue his legacy.
8. Jeff Montgomery: The Reliable Closer
Montgomery’s 304 saves and 3.20 ERA over 12 seasons (1988-1999) made him one of the most dependable closers in Royals history. The three-time All-Star led the American League with 45 saves in 1993, demonstrating remarkable consistency throughout his career as the team’s primary closer.
9. Steve Busby: The No-Hit Wonder
Despite a career shortened by injuries, Busby left an indelible mark by throwing two no-hitters for the Royals. His 70-54 record and 3.83 ERA included a spectacular 1974 season with 22 wins. The two-time All-Star’s impact on the franchise’s early years was truly remarkable.
10. Larry Gura: The Steady Starter
Gura compiled 111 wins with a 3.72 ERA across 10 seasons (1976-1985) for Kansas City. An All-Star in 1980, he played a vital role in the Royals’ success during the late 1970s and early 1980s. His consistency and ability to eat innings made him an essential part of the rotation during the team’s golden era.