Every pitcher wants to be the guy you trust when the lights are brightest. And some of them sure act like they’re built for the moment—until the moment actually arrives.
From postgame quotes to mound struts, these pitchers didn’t lack confidence. But when it came time to deliver, things didn’t go quite as planned. Here are 10 pitchers who talked a big game but folded under pressure.
10. Trevor Bauer
Bauer was never short on opinions or confidence. But for all the talk, his postseason numbers never quite matched the energy.
9. Jose Lima
Lima Time was loud and full of swagger. But when the stakes were high, that act lost steam quickly.
8. Jonathan Papelbon
Papelbon had the attitude of a closer you’d trust in any scenario. But some big-game meltdowns proved that the theatrics didn’t always come with results.
7. Matt Harvey
The “Dark Knight” once ruled New York with swagger and sound bites. But when the pressure built, the shine faded—and fast.
6. Ubaldo Jiménez
Jiménez had stretches where he looked like an ace and carried himself like one. But when his team needed him most, the command—and the confidence—vanished.
5. Esteban Loaiza
Loaiza went from breakout star to talking like a frontline guy. But in big moments, he often got lit up like a Fourth of July sky.
4. Ian Kennedy
Kennedy projected poise and leadership. But every time he had a shot to take the next step, the pressure got the best of him.
3. Dontrelle Willis
Everyone loved the delivery and the vibe, and Willis always played with confidence. Unfortunately, that confidence didn’t hold up in key pressure moments.
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2. Jack McDowell
“Black Jack” had the persona of a big-time competitor. But postseason moments never quite lived up to his regular-season bravado.
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1. Billy Koch
Koch came in throwing gas and full of bravado. But when things got tight, he unraveled quickly—often taking his team’s hopes with him.
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