Pitching: Today vs 20 Years Ago

It goes without saying, but pitching still matters in baseball, but it seems that the mentality has changed. Which era had better ptiching?

Twenty Years Ago:

1) Starters usually went 7+
2) Closers were expected to shut the other team down; we will never see 84 consecutive saves. Guys like Gagne, Lidge (until Pujols wrecked him), Rivera (GOAT Closer) are no longer
3) Relievers usally had better ERA's than starters (no surprise since starters went longer)
4) Pitchers did not throw as hard, and had fewer pitches in their arsenal.
5)Teams played small ball a lot more

Now:

1) You might have two or three starters, then you have your "openers". Starters don't usually go more than 6.
2) Pitchers are throwing harder, and thanks to the "Three True Outcomes" strikeouts are much higher.
3) Middle Relief is no longer looked down upon; they are expected to hold down the fort in the middle innings.
4) Unlike 20 years ago, closers are based on the lineup (if the top of the order is up in the eighth, your "closer" will be up in the eighth instead).
5) Closers don't go everyday
6) Bullpen is far more important
7) There are several, if not many starters who have a 5+ career ERA and 1.2+ WHIP. A lot more arms being used so we see a lot of guys being called up. It is not uncommon to see guys with 9+ ERA pitching

Homeruns are up, but so are strikeouts. Hitter appear to be better today, despite the TTO approach.


Thoughts?