What Is A Perfect Game In Baseball: Once In 9937 Games! | Honest Baseball (2024)

The flawless execution, the untouchable pitcher, and the euphoria of witnessing history being made – if you ask me what is a perfect game in baseball, that’s what my answer will be. I may sound a bit dramatic but for a rare performance that happens once in 9,937 games, I couldn’t find better words to describe.

Anyway, in a nutshell, a perfect game is a team play in baseball that requires the pitcher, catcher, and fielders to retire all batters from the opposing team, including the 27th batter. The pitching team can’t allow hits, walks, hit-by-pitches, or even errors.

So far MLB has witnessed 24 perfect games (combining National and American Leagues), starting with Lee Richmond in 1880. I’ve tried to make this article an encyclopedia of perfect games, including the demonstration of the term, history, MLB statistics, and so on. I believe you’ll get your answer.

Table of Contents

What Is a Perfect Game in Baseball? Definition and Mechanix

A perfect game in baseball is a team accomplishment that occurs when one or multiple pitchers successfully retire every batter from the opposing team, without any offensive player reaching base.

To achieve a perfect game, pitchers must navigate through 9 innings, retiring all 27 batters in order, without allowing any hits, walks, hit-by-pitches, or errors by their team. It is the ultimate display of pitching dominance and control.

The definition of a perfect game in baseball may seem simple, but its execution requires incredible skill and precision. The pitcher must throw the ball with accuracy and control every time, aiming for a record of retiring every batter in each inning.

Baseball pitchers need to strategically mix different types of pitches throughout the inning to keep the hitters off balance and induce weak contacts/swings and misses. So, every pitch from the game pitcher becomes crucial. Besides, even the slightest mistake with the ball can ruin the chance for perfection.

In addition to the pitcher’s contribution, baseball fielders and catchers also play an important role in preserving a perfect game. They must make every routine play flawlessly and be prepared to make extraordinary plays whenever it’s necessary.

MLB 2021 Rules for Perfect Games and Its Consequences

In 2021, Major League Baseball (MLB) made changes to the rules for perfect games, which had consequences for how these games are defined and credited. In summary,

  • MLB redefined a no-hitter as a game in which the pitcher or pitchers on one team throw a complete game of nine innings or more without surrendering a hit.
  • The definition of a perfect game was adjusted to parallel the new definition of a no-hitter, substituting “baserunner” for “hit”.
  • MLB implemented rule changes for extra-inning play and doubleheaders.
  • Games that are part of doubleheaders were shortened to 7 innings from 2020 to 2021.
  • In shortened doubleheader games where one team did not reach first base throughout regulation and any additional extra innings played (if applicable), it would not be credited as a perfect game.
  • If a doubleheader game went into at least two extra innings and one team still did not reach first base, it would be credited as a perfect game.

Consequences of the Rule Changes

Because of the changes in MLB perfect game rules, we’ve so far seen some consequences as well. Now whether it’s bad or good, leave that to other baseball fans. Let’s get a glimpse of a few.

  • Rule changes in 2021 affected the recognition of potential no-hitters and perfect games.
  • Now some games don’t count anymore. This includes games that were shorter than nine innings and games where a team didn’t get any hits in the regular innings but got a hit in extra innings.
  • The new WBSC tiebreaker rule in extra innings doesn’t ruin a perfect game, even if the runner on second base scores or gets out on a double play.
  • These rule changes did not impact any potential perfect games during the two seasons they were implemented, but there was one potential no-hitter affected.

Difference Between No-Hitter and Perfect Game

I would say the main distinction between a no-hitter and a perfect game lies in the absence of any opposing player reaching base. No doubt, both achievements are rare in baseball, but a perfect game takes it to another level. The below table will help you get a better idea:

No-HitterPerfect Game
A game in which a pitcher or pitchers do not allow any hits to the opposing teamA game in which a pitcher or pitchers do not allow any hits, walks, or errors to the opposing team
There can be walks, errors, or hit-by-pitches in a no-hitterThere are no walks, errors, or hit-by-pitches in a perfect game
It is possible for the opposing team to reach base through walks, errors, or hit-by-pitchesThe opposing team cannot reach base through walks, errors, or hit-by-pitches
A no-hitter can still have runs scored by the opposing teamA perfect game has no runs scored by the opposing team
It is a rare feat, but not as rare as a perfect gameIt is the most rare and difficult feat for a pitcher to achieve
There have been more than 322 no-hitters in MLB historyThere have been only 24 perfect games in MLB history

So, you can say that achieving a perfect game requires not only exceptional pitching skills but also flawless defense and focus from the entire team.

24 Perfect Games in MLB History

When it comes to perfect games in Major League Baseball history, both the National League and the American League have shown their fair share of extraordinary performances.

In total, both National and American leagues have 24 perfect games so far. I’ve shared the insights in the below for your easy understand:

National League Perfect Games

In the NL, notable moments include a dominant performance by Matt Cain and Jim Bunning’s perfect game scoring consecutively 10-0 and 6-0. Let’s check out all 9 National League perfect games in the MLB record.

SerialPitcherTeamOpponent TeamScoreDate
1Lee RichmondWorcester Ruby LegsCleveland Blues1 – 0June 12, 1880
2Monte WardProvidence GraysBuffalo Bisons5 – 0June 17, 1880
3Jim BunningPhiladelphia PhilliesNew York Mets6 – 0June 21, 1964
4Sandy KoufaxLos Angeles DodgersChicago Cubs1 – 0September 9, 1965
5Tom BrowningCincinnati RedsLos Angeles Dodgers1 – 0September 16, 1988
6Dennis MartinezMontreal ExposLos Angeles Dodgers2 – 0July 28, 1991
7Randy JohnsonArizona DiamondbacksAtlanta Braves2 – 0May 18, 2004
8Roy HalladayPhiladelphia PhilliesFlorida Marlins1 – 0May 29, 2010
9Matt CainSan Francisco GiantsHouston Astros10 – 0June 13, 2012

American League Perfect Games

You can appreciate the rarity and skill required to achieve a perfect game by looking at the history of American League pitchers. In the American League, there have been a total of 15 perfect games throughout its long history.

These remarkable feats showcase the ultimate display of dominance and precision on the pitching mound by legends like Domingo Germán, David Cone, and Mark Buehrle.

Here is a table showcasing the American League pitchers who have achieved perfection:

SerialPitcherTeamOpponent TeamScoreDate
1Cy YoungBoston PilgrimsPhiladelphia Athletics3 – 0May 5, 1904
2Addie JossCleveland NapsChicago White Sox1 – 0October 2, 1908
3Charlie RobertsonChicago White SoxDetroit Tigers2 – 0April 30, 1922
4Don LarsenNew York YankeesBrooklyn Dodgers2 – 0October 8, 1956
5Catfish HunterOakland AthleticsMinnesota Twins4 – 0May 8, 1968
6Len BarkerCleveland IndiansToronto Blue Jays3 – 0May 15, 1981
7Mike WittCalifornia AngelsTexas Rangers1 – 0September 30, 1984
8Kenny RogersTexas RangersCalifornia Angels4 – 0July 28, 1994
9David WellsNew York YankeesMinnesota Twins4 – 0May 17, 1998
10David ConeNew York YankeesMontreal Expos6 – 0July 18, 1999
11Mark BuehrleChicago White SoxTampa Bay Rays5 – 0July 23, 2009
12Dallas BradenOakland AthleticsTampa Bay Rays4 – 0May 9, 2010
13Philip HumberChicago White SoxSeattle Mariners4 – 0April 21, 2012
14Felix HernandezSeattle MarinersTampa Bay Rays1 – 0August 15, 2012
15Domingo GermánNew York YankeesOakland Athletics11 – 0June 28, 2023

New York Yankees – The Best Perfect Game Team

Out of the teams that have achieved perfect innings, the New York Yankees hold the highest ranking with four perfect games in MLB history.

The Yankees’ dominance in this category is a testament to their storied franchise and their ability to produce exceptional pitching performances. These perfect games showcase the skill and precision of the pitchers who wore the iconic pinstripes.

New Yankees Perfect Game List

  • Don Larsen made the first perfect game in Yankees history on October 8, 1956. It was during Game 5 of the World Series against the Brooklyn Dodgers. Don’s remarkable feat remains unparalleled as the only perfect game ever thrown in a World Series.
  • The second perfect game came from David Wells on May 17, 1998, against the Minnesota Twins at Yankee Stadium.
  • David Cone joined the exclusive club on July 18, 1999, when he threw a perfect game against his former team, the Montreal Expos. That was surely a heart-touching moment for him.
  • Finally, the last perfect game occurred by Domingo Germán on June 28, 2023. It was against the Oakland Athletics.

All MLB Teams Who Have Scored Perfect Games

TeamNumber of Perfect Games
New York Yankees4
Chicago White Sox3
Cleveland Naps/Indians/Guardians2
Philadelphia/Kansas City/Oakland Athletics2
Philadelphia Phillies2
California/Anaheim/Los Angeles Angels1
Seattle Mariners1
San Francisco Giants1
Arizona Diamondbacks1
Boston Americans/Red Sox1
Texas Rangers1
Montreal Expos/Washington Nationals1
Cincinnati Reds1
Brooklyn/Los Angeles Dodgers1
Detroit Tigers1

10 Minor League Perfect Games (2011 to 2022)

The perfect game scene in the Minor League is way beyond expectations. As of 2023, there are 144 perfect games in the Minor League segment. So, it’ll become messy for us to learn about other perfect game statistics. Let’s just check out the recent 10, starting from 2011 to 2022.

Pitcher NameDateScoreTeamsOpposing Teams
Martin Perez2011-04-191-0FriscoArkansas
Justin Germano2011-07-263-0ColumbusSyracuse
Justin Jackson/Patrick Merkling/Dane Stone2012-07-196-0GCL MarlinsGCL Astros
Matt Sergey2014-08-246-0WashingtonGateway
Gabriel Castellanos/Brett Lilek/Steve Farnworth2015-06-241-0BataviaMahoning Valley
Tyler Mahle2017-04-221-0PensacolaMobile
Domenic Mazza2017-04-269-0AugustaLexington
Conner Grey2017-09-015-0Kane CountyClinton
Justin Wrobleski/Christian Romero/Horacio Andujar2022-07-0213-0ACL DodgersACL White Sox
Frankeli Arias2022-08-042-0DSL White SoxDSL Diamondbacks Red

3 Unofficial Perfect Games

Sometimes, pitchers in baseball retire all the batters they face without letting them hit or walk. But, these achievements aren’t called perfect games officially. A perfect game means no player from the other team gets on base. Still, there have been a few times when pitchers almost did it.

Babe Ruth’s Perfect Games: On June 23 1917 Babe Ruth played for the Boston Red Sox. Encountered a peculiar situation. He walked the batter of the Washington Senators, which resulted in his ejection from the game.

However, there was no need to worry! Ernie Shore stepped in as his replacement. Proceeded to retire all 27 batters he faced. This exceptional performance is famously referred to as a combined no-hitter.

Harvey Haddix: Let’s fast forward to May 26 1959 where Harvey Haddix of the Pittsburgh Pirates experienced a game. He flawlessly pitched a game for 12 innings against the Milwaukee Braves.

Unfortunately, luck was not on his side during the bottom of the 13th inning when an error allowed a batter to reach base and ultimately score. This led to a loss for Haddix and the Pirates.

Pedro Martínez: Now let’s jump ahead to June 3, 1995. Pedro Martínez represented the Montreal Expos during an exhilarating game, against the San Diego Padres.

He magnificently pitched a game throughout nine innings. The excitement continued into innings when the Expos managed to score a run. Nevertheless, Martínez eventually conceded a hit before being relieved by another pitcher.

Perfect Games Spoiled By 27th Batters – Heartbroken MLB Statistics!

It’s really sad when a pitcher almost gets a perfect game but loses in the last moments. They must feel so disappointed. Here is a list of perfect games that were lost out of hand in extra innings:

PitcherTeamOpponentSpoiled ByResultDate
Hooks WiltseNew York GiantsPhiladelphia PhilliesGeorge McQuillan (PHI)W 1-0 (10 innings)July 4, 1908
Tommy BridgesDetroit TigersWashington SenatorsDave Harris (PHI)W 13-0August 5, 1932
Billy PierceChicago White SoxWashington SenatorsEd Fitz Gerald (PHI)W 3-0June 27, 1958
Milt PappasChicago CubsSan Diego PadresLarry Stahl (SDP)W 8-0September 2, 1972
Milt WilcoxDetroit TigersChicago White SoxJerry Hairston Sr. (PHI)W 6-0April 15, 1983
Ron RobinsonCincinnati RedsMontreal ExposWallace Johnson (PHI)W 3-2May 2, 1988
Dave StiebToronto Blue JaysNew York YankeesRoberto Kelly (NYY)W 2-1August 4, 1989
Brian HolmanSeattle MarinersOakland AthleticsKen Phelps (OAK)L 6-8April 20, 1990
Mike MussinaNew York YankeesBoston Red SoxCarl Everett (BOS)W 1-0September 2, 2001
Armando GalarragaDetroit TigersCleveland IndiansJason Donald (CLE)W 3-0June 2, 2010
Yu DarvishTexas RangersHouston AstrosMarwin González (HOU)W 7-0April 2, 2013
Yusmeiro PetitSan Francisco GiantsArizona DiamondbacksEric Chávez (ARI)W 3-0September 6, 2013
Max ScherzerWashington NationalsPittsburgh PiratesJosé Tábata (PIT)W 6-0June 20, 2015

“Please note that in some cases, the perfect game was still completed, but the pitcher lost the chance for a “true” perfect game when the 27th batter reached base.”

List of Near-Perfect Games in Baseball

There have been many close calls in history, starting from Walter Johnson in 1919 to Shelby Miller in 2013. These near misses show how hard it is to pitch a perfect game.

Here is a table showcasing some notable near-perfect game bids:

PitcherTeamOpponentDate
Walter JohnsonWashington SenatorsNew York YankeesMay 11, 1919
Waite HoytBoston Red SoxNew York YankeesSeptember 24, 1919
Rick WisePhiladelphia PhilliesChicago CubsSeptember 18, 1971
A. J. BurnettFlorida MarlinsMilwaukee BrewersJuly 6, 2005
Cy YoungBoston Red SoxNew York HighlandersJune 30, 1908
Ernie ShoreBoston Red SoxWashington Senators (Babe Ruth’s game)June 23, 1917
Al AtkinsonPhiladelphia AthleticsPittsburgh AlleghenysMay 24, 1884
Bullet Joe BushPhiladelphia AthleticsCleveland IndiansAugust 26, 1916
Curt SimmonsPhiladelphia PhilliesMilwaukee BravesMay 16, 1953
Robin RobertsPhiladelphia PhilliesCincinnati RedsMay 13, 1954
Woodie FrymanPittsburgh PiratesNew York MetsJuly 1, 1966
Jim BibbyPittsburgh PiratesAtlanta BravesMay 19, 1981
Jerry ReussLos Angeles DodgersCincinnati RedsJune 11, 1982
Chris BosioSeattle MarinersBoston Red SoxApril 22, 1993
John LackeyLos Angeles AngelsOakland AthleticsJuly 7, 2006
Shelby MillerSt. Louis CardinalsColorado RockiesMay 10, 2013

List of Other Perfect Games in Different Countries and Leagues

When it comes to perfect games, in baseball, it is not just Major League Baseball that has witnessed this rare accomplishment. The other part of the world had too!

In Nippon Professional Baseball, there have been a total of sixteen instances where pitchers threw games including one during the postseason.

The Mexican League has also had the pleasure of witnessing nine games with one game featuring the remarkable contribution of three different pitchers.

Additionally, both the Cuban National League and Chinese Professional Baseball League have their history of perfect games contributing to the overall significance of this remarkable achievement across various baseball leagues around the world.

1. Nippon Professional Baseball Perfect Games

If you don’t know, Nippon Professional Baseball is the highest league in Japan. According to their league history, there are a total of seventeen perfect games. Check out the Nippon Professional Baseball perfect games and their scores.

Pitcher NameTeamOpponent TeamScoreDate
Hideo FujimotoYomiuri GiantsNishi-Nippon Pirates4 – 0June 28, 1950
Fumio TakechiKintetsu PearlsDaiei Stars1 – 0June 19, 1955
Yoshitomo MiyajiKokutetsu SwallowsHiroshima Carp6 – 0Sept 19, 1956
Masaichi KanedaKokutetsu SwallowsChunichi Dragons1 – 0Aug 21, 1957
Sadao NishimuraNishitetsu LionsToei Flyers1 – 0July 19, 1958
Gentaro ShimadaTaiyo WhalesOsaka Tigers1 – 0Aug 11, 1960
Yoshimi MoritakiKokutetsu SwallowsChunichi Dragons1 – 0June 20, 1961
Kichiro SasakiTaiyo WhalesHiroshima Carp1 – 0May 1, 1966
Tsutomu TanakaNishitetsu LionsNankai Hawks2 – 0May 12, 1966
Yoshiro SotokobaHiroshima Toyo CarpTaiyo Whales2 – 0Sept 14, 1968
Koichiro SasakiKintetsu BuffaloesNankai Hawks3 – 0Oct 6, 1970
Yoshimasa TakahashiToei FlyersNishitetsu Lions4 – 0Aug 21, 1971
Soroku YagisawaLotte OrionsTaiheiyo Club Lions1 – 0Oct 10, 1973
Yutaro ImaiHankyu BravesLotte Orions5 – 0Aug 31, 1978
Hiromi MakiharaYomiuri GiantsHiroshima Toyo Carp6 – 0May 18, 1994
Daisuke Yamai and Hitoki IwaseChunichi DragonsHokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters1 – 0Nov 1, 2007
Roki SasakiChiba Lotte MarinesOrix Buffaloes6 – 0April 10, 2022

2. Mexican League Baseball Perfect Games

I’ve found 11 perfect game innings in the history of Mexican League Baseball. This is a pure example, raw talents are there too. Below are the pitchers who have thrown perfect games in the Mexican League:

Pitcher(s)TeamOpponentScoreDate
Ramiro CuevasNuevo Laredo OwlsMexico City Red Devils1 – 0August 14, 1953
Francisco Maytorena
Hector Manuel Diaz
Nicolas GarciaMexico City TigersVeracruz Eagle3 – 0March 24, 1971
Andrés AyónSaltillo SaraperosMonterrey Sultans9 – 0June 30, 1972
Diego SeguiCordoba Coffee GrowersNuevo Laredo Owls5 – 0June 21, 1978
Horacio PinaRieleros de AguascalientesMexico City Red Devils3 – 0July 12, 1978
Jairo ValenzuelaSaltillo SaraperosCordoba Coffee Growers5 – 0June 10, 1984
Herminio DominguezCampeche PiratesCordoba Coffee Growers1 – 0April 14, 1985
Don HeinkelCampeche PiratesMexico City Red Devils7 – 0June 2, 1992
Oscar RiveraYucatan LionsOaxaca Warriors1 – 0August 7, 2005

3. Mexican Pacific League Perfect Games

The Mexican Pacific League, also known as Liga Mexicana del Pacífico (LMP), is another pro baseball league in Mexico that has a rich history of talented players and exciting games.

Over the years, there have been several instances where pitchers have dominated their opponents, scoring a perfect game. Such as;

Pitcher(s)TeamOpponentScoreNotesDate
Vicente Romo1971
Jesus Moreno1989
Joakim SoriaObregon YaquisHermosillo Naranjeros6-02006

4. All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL)

Yep, our girls also showed remarkable scores in perfect games, starting from mid-40s to early 50s. Unfortunately, I’ve not found any recent perfect game stats in the women’s league.

Pitcher(s)TeamOpponentDate
Annabelle LeeMinneapolis MillerettesKenosha Comets1944
Carolyn MorrisRockford PeachesFort Wayne Daisies1945
Doris SamsMuskegon LassiesFort Wayne DaisiesAugust 18, 1947
Jean FautSouth Bend Blue SoxRockford PeachesJuly 21, 1951
Jean FautSouth Bend Blue SoxKalamazoo LassiesSeptember 3, 1953

5. Cuban National League Perfect Games

In the Cuban National League, there was only one perfect game ever. Still, it’s impressive to see such an achievement from a new baseball country.

Pitcher(s)TeamOpponentSiteScoreDate
Maels RodríguezSancti SpiritusLas TunasEstadio José Antonio Huelga1 – 0December 22, 1999

6. Chinese Professional Baseball League Perfect Games

Unlike technology, Chinese baseball leagues are still a bit backdated. I don’t know whether it’s because of a lack of exposure or something else. So far the only Chinese Professional League perfect game was achieved by Ryan Verdugo.

Pitcher(s)TeamOpponentScoreDate
Ryan VerdugoUni-President LionsChinatrust Brothers1 – 0October 7, 2018

7. Dutch Major League (Hoofdklasse Honkbal)

I’m still struggling to pronounce this Dutch league name, an alternative to the Major League in the Netherlands. Do it at your risk. Anyway, the league is still growing in the global scenario but already tested the perfect game.

Pitcher(s)TeamOpponentScoreDate
Craig McGinnisHaarlem NicolsDe Spartan??1989
Eelco JansenCorendon KinheimADO??July 27, 1997
Misja HarcksenCuraçao NeptunusTwins Oosterhout4-0April 14, 2019

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Perfect Games Have Been Recorded in Major League Baseball History?

So far, Major League Baseball has tested 24 perfect games among 238,500 matches in the last 154 years of history. It’s a rare and impressive feat!

Has a Perfect Game Ever Been Thrown in the World Series?

Yes, a perfect game has been thrown in the World Series. Don Larsen achieved this feat on October 8, 1956, pitching for the New York Yankees against the Brooklyn Dodgers.

Are There Any Official Records for Perfect Games Thrown in the Minor Leagues?

Yes, there are official records for perfect games thrown in the minor leagues. These games are recognized and documented just like perfect games in the major leagues.

Has There Ever Been a Perfect Game Thrown in a Professional Baseball League Outside of the United States?

Yes, there have been perfect games thrown in professional baseball leagues outside of the United States. I’ve mentioned some of the perfect game pitchers with details above.

Has Anyone Thrown a 27 Pitch Game?

If you’re asking about a 27-strikeout no-hitter, the title goes to Ron Necciai. He struck out someone at his 27th in 9 innings, back then in 1952.

How Rare is a Perfect Game in Baseball?

Since we’ve seen only 24 MLB perfect games after 238,500 games, we can expect to see a perfect game once in 9,937 games. If talking about the time, the historic data suggest, you need to wait at least 6 years to witness a new perfect game.

These all are just assumptions of pure average, no one can predict. Who knows, we might see another perfect game in the next season.

Who is the Oldest Pitcher to Throw a Perfect Game?

Once the oldest pitcher to throw a perfect game in Major League Baseball history was Cy Young. He achieved this record on May 5, 1904, at the age of 37.

However, later the record was broken by Randy Johnson on May 18, 2004. The left-handed pitcher did it at 40 years old.

Conclusion

Well, that was a long story + history to get the answer of what is a perfect game in baseball. I know it might seem boring sometimes to go through tons of baseball statistics, but it’s good to boost your analytical mind. And I hope this helped. BTW, why did you come up with such an innovative question? Let me know in the comment

Check out interesting plays about baseball:

What Is A Strikeout In Baseball? Rules,

What Does Defect Mean In Baseball?

What Is A Utility Player In Baseball?

What Is A Perfect Game In Baseball: Once In 9937 Games! | Honest Baseball (1)

Jason Butler

Hello everyone. My name is Jason Butler, and I live in California, America. I was a professional AAA Minor League Baseball player.I lost my chance of playing MLB for injury issues, but I did not lose my love for baseball. I attended the coaching training program and am now working as a coach in a small school in San Diego.

I always love to share my experience and knowledge if that can help you. Play baseball, and stay fit.

What Is A Perfect Game In Baseball: Once In 9937 Games! | Honest Baseball (2024)

FAQs

What is considered a perfect game in baseball? ›

A perfect game is a complete game pitched without a runner reaching base either by hit, base-on-balls, or error. It is one of the rarest feats in baseball and a subset of no-hitters. The first major league perfect game was thrown in 1880 by Lee Richmond.

Has anyone ever struck out all 27 batters? ›

You can't walk the world in the big leagues." On May 13, 1952 while pitching for the Class-D Bristol Twins, Ron Necciai tossed a no-hitter, striking out 27 in nine innings! After that summer, Necciai was drafted to fight in the Korean War, but was quickly discharged because of his ulcer problems.

What was the last perfect game in baseball? ›

When was the last MLB perfect game? The last MLB perfect game was June 28, 2023, by Domingo Germán (New York Yankees) against the Oakland Athletics.

How many outs are in a perfect game? ›

A perfect game in baseball is defined as a game lasting at least 9 innings where no opposing batter reaches base. This means no hits, no bases on balls, no runner reaching base via an error by a fielder and no batters hit by pitch. 27 batters up and 27 batters out with no one getting on base.

Has anyone thrown a 27 pitch game? ›

Necciai is the only professional pitcher to record 27 strikeouts in a nine-inning game, and a ball from that 7-0 win over the Welch Miners – which Necciai donated to the Hall of Fame in 2001 – is on display in the Museum's One for the Books exhibit.

What is a perfect 9 pitch inning? ›

An immaculate inning occurs in baseball when a pitcher strikes out all three batters he faces in one inning using the minimum possible number of pitches: nine. This has happened 114 times in Major League history and has been accomplished by 104 pitchers (79 right-handed and 25 left-handed).

Who is considered the greatest pitcher of all time? ›

1. Walter Johnson
IPWK/BB
5,9144172.6

What is more rare than a perfect game? ›

There have only been 15 unassisted triple plays in MLB history, making this feat rarer than a perfect game.

Has a pitcher ever lost a perfect game? ›

On May 26, 1959, Harvey Haddix of the Pittsburgh Pirates pitched a perfect game for 12 innings against the Milwaukee Braves, but lost the no-hitter and the game in the 13th inning.

Has Nolan Ryan thrown a perfect game? ›

Ryan also pitched 18 two-hitters. Despite this, he never pitched a perfect game, nor did he ever win a Cy Young Award; both were largely attributed to his high walk rate. Ryan is one of only 31 players in baseball history to have appeared in MLB games in four different decades.

Who has the most no-hitters in MLB history? ›

Hall of Famer Sandy Koufax threw four no-hitters, including one perfect game, during his MLB career. The pitcher who holds the record for the most no-hitters is Nolan Ryan, who threw seven in his 27-year career.

Did Randy Johnson throw a perfect game? ›

On May 18, 2004, at 40 years old, he threw Major League Baseball's 17th perfect game, and remains the oldest pitcher to accomplish the feat. Johnson retired at the age of 46, and was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2015, his first year of eligibility.

Do they have mercy rule in MLB? ›

'Rockies rule': Baseball fans call for MLB mercy rule after record-breaking loss. DENVER (KDVR) – There isn't a mercy rule in baseball, but some fans think there should be after the Colorado Rockies lost 16-1 in the team's season opener against the Arizona Diamondbacks.

How rare is a perfect game in MLB? ›

In the 140+ year history of Major League Baseball, over 200,000+ games have been played, but only 24 perfect games have been pitched. The first perfect game was pitched on June 12th, 1880 by Lee Richmond at the Worcester Agricultural Fairgrounds in Worcester, Massachusetts.

How many perfect games have there been in MLB history? ›

Over the 154 years of Major League Baseball history, and over 238,500 games played, there have been 24 official perfect games by the current definition. No pitcher has thrown more than one.

How many strikes are in a perfect game in baseball? ›

Each batter will receive a max of six pitches or three swinging strikes. Pitches that are deemed unhittable by the umpire will not be counted. If a player fouls off the 6th pitch it will be recorded as an out. Team may score a maximum of seven (7) runs per inning, including the last inning or record three (3) outs.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Carlyn Walter

Last Updated:

Views: 5470

Rating: 5 / 5 (50 voted)

Reviews: 81% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Carlyn Walter

Birthday: 1996-01-03

Address: Suite 452 40815 Denyse Extensions, Sengermouth, OR 42374

Phone: +8501809515404

Job: Manufacturing Technician

Hobby: Table tennis, Archery, Vacation, Metal detecting, Yo-yoing, Crocheting, Creative writing

Introduction: My name is Carlyn Walter, I am a lively, glamorous, healthy, clean, powerful, calm, combative person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.