If Homer Bailey's a Bust, What Do You Call These Other Pitchers at 23?

Homer Bailey was "The Chosen One." He was the can't-miss prospect that Reds fans were waiting for. After being brought to the big leagues at the age of 21 in 2007, Bailey has not exactly blown away the competition.

In 28 starts for the Reds, Bailey is 6-12 with a 7.05 earned run average.

After the 2008 season, most fans were convinced that it was time to cut ties with Bailey. Young arms like Edinson Volquez and Johnny Cueto were the future now.

With Volquez being out until late next year because of Tommy John surgery, many just let out a sigh and agree they must settle for having Bailey in the starting rotation.

This may be the opportunity that Bailey needs. He can now walk to the mound. He doesn't have to ride a white horse and acknowledge thunderous applause. He can just pitch.

So, Reds Country, just relax and let the young man develop. He turned 23 years old on May 3.

Let's take a look at some other decent pitchers at the same point in their careers.

Zack Greinke

Zack Greinke also entered to the big leagues at a young age. He made his Major League debut for the Royals at 20 years old in 2004. In 2007, at the age of 23 he had compiled a 21-25 record with a 4.63 earned run average.

He is currently leading the American League with a 2.33 ERA.

Chris Carpenter

Chris Carpenter made his Major League debut in 1997 as a member of the Toronto Blue Jays. He was 22 years old. From 1997-2002, he was 49-50 with a 4.83 ERA.

Since joining the Cardinals at 29 years old, his record is 64-23 and he is allowing less than three runs per game.

Roy Halladay

At 23 years old, Roy Halladay was 4-7 with a 10.64 earned run average. Two years later, he won 19 games. He is now considered one of the best pitchers in baseball.

A.J. Burnett

At 23 years old, A.J. Burnett was 3-7 with a 4.79 ERA as a member of the Florida Marlins. He is currently with Yankees and has put together his fifth consecutive double-digit win season.

Dan Haren

In 2004, 23-year old Dan Haren was 3-3 with a 4.50 ERA for the St. Louis Cardinals. He went to Oakland in 2005 and won 14 games. His win total has been in double digits ever since.

David Cone

David Cone allowed over five runs per game at age 23 while with the Royals. He improved the next year after going to the Mets. As a 24-year old, Cone was 5-6 with a 3.71 ERA. He won 20 games in 1988 at age 25.

Nolan Ryan

Even Hall-of-Famers have to start somewhere. In 1970, 23-year old Nolan Ryan was 7-11 for the Mets. He went 10-14 in 1971 before being traded to the Angels. He is now considered to be one of the greatest pitchers of all time.