How many perfect games have been pitched in MLB history?
In the rich tapestry of Major League Baseball (MLB) history, the perfect game stands as a pinnacle of pitching excellence. A perfect game is a rare feat where a pitcher retires all 27 batters they face in a single game without allowing a single hit, walk, or error. This extraordinary achievement is one of the most revered and celebrated moments in the sport. So, how many perfect games have been pitched in MLB history? As of now, a total of 23 perfect games have been recorded.
The first perfect game in MLB history was thrown by Cy Young on May 5, 1904, for the Boston Americans against the Philadelphia Athletics. Since then, the number of perfect games has grown, with each one etching its own unique story into the annals of baseball history. The most recent perfect game was thrown by Dallas Keuchel of the Houston Astros on June 2, 2015, against the Seattle Mariners.
Several pitchers have achieved the rare distinction of pitching multiple perfect games. The most notable of these is Don Larsen, who threw a perfect game on October 2, 1956, for the New York Yankees against the Brooklyn Dodgers in Game 5 of the World Series. This remains the only perfect game in World Series history.
Pitchers who have thrown perfect games come from various eras and backgrounds, showcasing the diverse talent that baseball has to offer. Some of the notable pitchers who have thrown perfect games include Sandy Koufax, who threw two perfect games in his career, and Felix Hernandez, who achieved the feat on August 15, 2012, for the Seattle Mariners.
The rarity of the perfect game underscores the incredible skill and concentration required to execute such a feat. Pitchers who throw perfect games often have to navigate through a combination of strategic decisions, opponent adjustments, and sheer luck. It is a testament to their ability to dominate at the highest level of the sport.
In conclusion, a total of 23 perfect games have been pitched in MLB history, each one a testament to the remarkable skill and determination of the pitchers who have achieved this extraordinary milestone. As the game continues to evolve, the perfect game remains a cherished part of baseball’s legacy, inspiring future generations of pitchers to strive for excellence.
