Sandshrew

Sandshrew surprises at 300 base stat total, its Ground typing offering immunity to Electric moves — a 100% damage reduction versus Pikachu — but its 20 base Special Attack is 35% lower than Squirtle's, limiting its coverage. It boasts 75 base Defense, 15% higher than the average Gen 1 Pokémon, yet its lack of Special Attack keeps it from competing with starters. While it can survive a Thunderbolt hit that would KO Charmander, its 18% slower Speed than the typical rival means it often moves second in crucial battles.