MLB's Longest Game: Most Innings Played?

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Baseball, America's pastime, is known for its potential to stretch on for hours, but just how long can a single game go? When we talk about the most innings in an MLB game, we're diving into the record books to uncover some truly marathon matchups.

The Record Holder: A Test of Endurance

The longest game in MLB history, in terms of innings, took place on May 1, 1920, between the Brooklyn Robins (later the Dodgers) and the Boston Braves. This historic contest lasted a whopping 26 innings. Yes, you read that right—26! The game ended in a 1-1 tie due to darkness, a common factor in the pre-lights era. — Gamilah Shabazz: Life, Activism, And Legacy

  • Date: May 1, 1920
  • Teams: Brooklyn Robins vs. Boston Braves
  • Final Score: 1-1
  • Innings: 26

Key Moments and Highlights

Imagine being a player or a fan present at Washington Park that day. The game started routinely, but as the innings piled up, it turned into an epic battle of attrition. Both starting pitchers, Leon Cadore for Brooklyn and Joe Oeschger for Boston, pitched complete games. Cadore allowed one earned run over 26 innings, while Oeschger matched him, also allowing just one earned run over the same distance. A truly remarkable feat of pitching endurance!

Other Notable Long Games

While the 1920 game holds the record, several other MLB games have tested the limits of endurance. Here are a few honorable mentions:

  1. May 9, 1984: Chicago White Sox vs. Milwaukee Brewers (25 innings) - The White Sox won 7-6 in a game that took over 8 hours to complete.
  2. June 24, 1967: Houston Astros vs. New York Mets (24 innings) - The Astros prevailed 1-0 in a classic pitching duel.
  3. April 15, 1968: Chicago Cubs vs. Los Angeles Dodgers (23 innings) - The game ended in a 1-1 tie.

Why Do Games Go So Long?

Several factors can contribute to extra-inning marathons:

  • Strong Pitching: Dominant performances by starting pitchers and relievers can keep the score low.
  • Clutch Defense: Key defensive plays can prevent runs from scoring and extend the game.
  • Timely Hitting: Or, in some cases, the lack thereof. An inability to drive in runners can prolong the game.
  • Weather Conditions: While not always a primary factor, weather can sometimes play a role in affecting player performance and strategy.

The Impact on Players and Teams

Participating in a game with a high number of innings can take a significant toll on players. Pitchers, obviously, face extreme physical demands. Position players also endure fatigue, impacting their performance in subsequent games. Teams often have to make roster adjustments following these marathon contests to ensure players get adequate rest. — Unfollow On Snapchat: A Quick Guide

Conclusion: A Testament to Baseball's Unpredictability

The record for the most innings in a MLB game is a testament to the unpredictable nature of baseball. While modern strategies and rules aim to speed up the game, these historical marathon matchups remain legendary. They highlight the incredible endurance and competitive spirit of the players involved. Next time you settle in to watch a game, remember the 26-inning battle of 1920, and appreciate that anything can happen on the diamond. Who knows? You might witness history in the making! — NRL Today: Game On!