The 2012 MLB season has given us more than a few great pitching performances. There was Matt Cain’s perfect game, which ranked among the most dominant outings in recent memory. Johan Santana became the first pitcher in New York Mets history to throw a no-hitter. Six Seattle Mariners pitchers combined to allow zero hits to the Los Angeles Angels. Tonight Cincinnati Reds pitcher Homer Bailey added his name to the list with a gem versus the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Bailey has been overshadowed for most of the season by teammate Johnny Cueto (19-9 2.83 ERA), who will receive a few Cy Young votes, but 2012 has been a year to remember for the 2004 first round pick. He’s established career highs in games started (32), wins (13), complete games (2), strikeouts (162), and innings pitched (204). And thanks to the Reds securing a playoff Bailey will get the opportunity to continue his best professional season by helping the team advance to the World Series.
