Counting the Perfection- How Many MLB Pitchers Have Achieved the Historic Perfect Game Milestone-
How many perfect games have been pitched in MLB history? This is a question that has intrigued baseball fans for decades. A perfect game is one in which a pitcher allows no hits, walks, or errors, and it is one of the most prestigious achievements in the sport. As of now, the number of perfect games in MLB history is a testament to the skill and determination of pitchers who have managed to accomplish this rare feat.
The first perfect game in MLB history was pitched by Don Larsen of the New York Yankees against the Brooklyn Dodgers on October 2, 1956. This historic game took place in the World Series and is often considered one of the greatest pitching performances of all time. Since then, only 23 pitchers have joined the exclusive club of those who have thrown a perfect game in the major leagues.
One of the most notable perfect games in recent history was thrown by Felix Hernandez of the Seattle Mariners on August 15, 2012. Hernandez’s gem against the Tampa Bay Rays was the 22nd perfect game in MLB history and marked the first time in 13 years that a perfect game had been thrown. The Mariners’ pitcher threw 108 pitches, striking out 12 batters, and allowing no hits, walks, or errors.
Another remarkable perfect game was pitched by Dallas Braden of the Oakland Athletics on May 9, 2010, against the Tampa Bay Rays. Braden’s performance was the 23rd perfect game in MLB history and came in a game that was postponed due to rain. The pitcher, who was known for his control, allowed no hits, walks, or errors over 9 innings, striking out 12 batters in the process.
Perfect games are not only a testament to the skill of the pitcher but also to the defense behind them. In order to throw a perfect game, a pitcher must rely on his teammates to make plays that they might not normally make. This often requires a combination of pinpoint pitching, excellent fielding, and a bit of luck.
Despite the rarity of perfect games, there have been several instances where pitchers have come close to achieving this feat. Some of these near-perfect games have been overshadowed by the perfect games that followed, but they are still remarkable achievements in their own right.
In conclusion, the number of perfect games pitched in MLB history is a small but significant figure. With only 23 pitchers having achieved this rare accomplishment, it is clear that perfect games are a true testament to the extraordinary skill and determination of those who have thrown them. As baseball continues to evolve, the question of how many perfect games will be thrown in the future remains a topic of interest for fans and analysts alike.
