Records of the Longest Baseball Games: From 26 Innings to 33 Innings and Beyond
The sport of baseball has its fair share of fascinating records, and the length of a game is one of the most intriguing among them. Baseball enthusiasts often wonder about the longest games played, which can span several hours or even days. From a 26-inning marathon to a record-setting 33-inning game, let's explore the history of the longest baseball games ever played.
The Ultimate Timeline of Longest Games
1. Longest MLB Game by Duration
Duration: 8 hours, 6 minutes
Date/Teams: May 8-9, 1984 (Chicago White Sox vs. Milwaukee Brewers)
Final Score: 7-6 in favor of the Chicago White Sox
One of the most notable games, which was primarily by duration, was played between the Chicago White Sox and the Milwaukee Brewers in 1984. This game stretched for an incredible 8 hours and 6 minutes on two consecutive days. It concluded with a victory for the White Sox by a score of 7-6. This game remains one of the most talked-about records in baseball history.
2. Longest Game in Professional Baseball (Innings)
Duration: 8 hours and 25 minutes
Date/Teams: July 17-18, 2023 (Pawtucket Red Sox vs. Rochester Red Wings)
Final Score: 3-2 in favor of the Pawtucket Red Sox
The longest game in terms of innings ever played in professional baseball stretched to a remarkable 33 innings. This game was a nail-biter between the Pawtucket Red Sox and the Rochester Red Wings. The final score was a close 3-2 win for the Pawtucket Red Sox. Dallas Williams, the Rochester centerfielder, went 0 for 13, highlighting the grueling nature of the game.
3. 26-Inning Game (From 1920 and Beyond)
Date/Teams: May 1, 1920 (Brooklyn Robins Dodgers vs. Boston Braves)
Pitchers: Joe Oeschger (Boston), Leon Cadore (Brooklyn)
Final Status: Game was suspended after 17 innings at 1 a.m. and completed the following night.
A timeless record was set on May 1, 1920, between the Brooklyn Robins Dodgers and the Boston Braves. This 26-inning game saw the longest-ever MLB game in innings. Despite the immense length, due to darkness, the game was called after 17 innings, and it resumed the next night. Both pitchers, Joe Oeschger and Leon Cadore, threw a complete game of 26 innings each, though neither received a decision.
4. Major League Baseball's Longest Game with a Winner and Loser
Date/Teams: May 8, 1984 (Chicago White Sox vs. Milwaukee Brewers)
Final Score: 7-6 in favor of the White Sox
Highlights: Harold Baines' walk-off home run in the bottom of the 25th inning
In recent years, the Chicago White Sox and the Milwaukee Brewers played a 25-inning game on May 8, 1984. This game is notable not just for its length but also for its exciting finish. The game was suspended after 17 innings, with the score tied at 1-1. The following night, the White Sox emerged victorious with a 7-6 score, thanks to Harold Baines' walk-off home run in the bottom of the 25th inning. This game not only set a new record for the longest MLB game in innings but also showcased some of the most relentless and strategic play in baseball history.
Conclusion
Baseball games can last for hours or even reach beyond the normal 9-inning limit. The records of the longest games are a testament to the resilience and tenacity of baseball players. From 26-inning games to 33-inning matches, these records remind us of the timeless spirit of the sport. So, the next time you watch a game that extends past the usual innings count, remember the unique and historic nature of those moments.
Key Takeaways: The longest duration MLB game, the world record for innings played, the record for the most innings in a game that ends with a winner and loser, and the fascination with the end of the game no matter the duration.