Rank: 2
Position: P
Years With White Sox: 2000-2011
Mark Buehrle joined the White Sox organization in 1998, drafted in the 38th round. Despite his lowly draft status, he rose quickly through the system, first coming up during the 2000 season, working out of the bullpen for the eventual division champions. He moved into the rotation the following season, and stayed there for the next 11 seasons. During that time, there were numerous memorable appearances, many of which I was privileged to see in person.
The 2007 no-hitter against the Rangers.
The 2009 perfect game against the Rays.
Winning Game 2 of the 2005 ALCS against the Angels, thanks to AJ’s heads-up baserunning, and starting the streak of 4 straight complete games.
The 1 hour 36 minute game against the Mariners in 2005.
The no look, through his legs flip to Paul Konerko on Opening Day 2010 against the Indians.
And, of course, his performance in the 2005 World Series, starting Game 2, getting a no decision, and coming in to pitch the 14th inning and earning the save in Game 3.
In White Sox annals, Buehrle is currently fifth all-time in strikeouts, sixth in games started, and eighth in wins and innings pitched.
Buehrle’s numbers in a White Sox uniform, both for games I attended and overall, were:
Career Pitching
| Wins | Losses | ERA | Saves | IP | Hits | Runs | ER | Walks | Strike Outs | HR | HBP | Games |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 31 | 16 | 3.41 | 0 | 467.667 | 471 | 199 | 177 | 107 | 290 | 48 | 7 | 71 |
| 161 | 119 | 3.83 | 0 | 2476.667 | 2610 | 1171 | 1053 | 564 | 1396 | 274 | 55 | 390 |
