American · Gilmore, USA · Born 29 March 1867American baseball pitcher who holds the all-time record for career wins (511) and complete games, playing from 1890-1911 in Major League Baseball.
Born Denton True Young on March 29, 1867, in Gilmore, Ohio, the future baseball legend grew up on a farm in rural Tuscarawas County. His nickname "Cy" derived from "Cyclone," referencing the devastating speed of his fastball that reportedly destroyed wooden fences during practice sessions. Young's professional career began in 1890 when he signed with the Cleveland Spiders of the National League at age 23. Young's career spanned 22 seasons across five major league teams, including the Cleveland Spiders, St. Louis Cardinals, Boston Red Sox, Cleveland Naps, and Boston Rustlers. His peak years came during the 1890s and early 1900s, when he consistently won 20 or more games per season. Notably, he achieved five seasons with 30 or more victories, including a career-high 36 wins in 1892. Young demonstrated remarkable durability and consistency, completing 749 of his 815 career starts while maintaining exceptional control throughout his lengthy career. Young's statistical achievements remain unparalleled in baseball history. His 511 career victories stand as an untouchable record, surpassing second-place Walter Johnson by 94 wins. He simultaneously holds the record for most career losses with 316, reflecting the era's expectation for pitchers to complete games regardless of circumstances. Young also recorded the most career innings pitched at 7,356 and threw three no-hitters, including a perfect game on May 5, 1904, against the Philadelphia Athletics. His career winning percentage of .618 demonstrates sustained excellence across more than two decades. Young's legacy extends far beyond his playing career. He was among the first five players inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1937, cementing his status as a foundational figure in the sport's history. Since 1956, the annual Cy Young Award has honored the best pitcher in each major league, making it the only individual award in American professional sports named after a player that recognizes excellence in both leagues simultaneously. Young died in 1955 at age 88, shortly before this lasting tribute to his dominance was established.
511 career wins (MLB record), pitching longevity and durability
His 511 career wins is 94 more than any other pitcher in baseball history — and the gap to the modern era leaders is so enormous that his record is as permanent as any in sport.
Did You Know?How They Played
Workhorse pitcher known for control and endurance
Lasting Impact
Cy Young Award for best pitcher named in his honor
Career Honours
- 511 career wins (all-time record)
- 2,803 career strikeouts
- Award named after him
- World Series champion (1903)
- Baseball Hall of Fame inductee (1937)
- Cy Young Award namesake
| Team | Period | Games |
|---|---|---|
| Canton Navigators | 1890–1890 | — |
| Cleveland Spiders | 1890–1898 | — |
| Boston Red Sox | 1901–1908 | — |
| Cleveland Naps | 1909–1911 | — |
| St. Louis Perfectos | 1899–1900 | — |
American Athletes