A perfect game is a rare feat for any pitcher in Major League Baseball. To pitch a perfect game, a pitcher must not allow any opposing batters to reach base throughout the entire nine innings of the game. It is the pinnacle of a pitcher’s career and it is an accomplishment that few will ever experience. But what happens if you are a pitcher who loses a perfect game?
What is a Perfect Game?
A perfect game in baseball is when a pitcher throws a complete game shutout and does not allow any opposing batters to reach base. This includes hits, walks, errors, hit-by-pitches, or any other way a batter can get on base. If a pitcher achieves a perfect game, he is credited with a win and his team is credited with a win. It is a rare feat, as only 23 perfect games have been pitched in the MLB’s history.
Can You Lose a Perfect Game?
Yes, it is possible to lose a perfect game. Just because a pitcher has thrown a perfect game does not guarantee that his team will win the game. If the offense is unable to score any runs, then the pitcher’s perfect game will be for naught as the team will still lose the game. This has happened three times in the MLB’s history, with the last instance occurring in 2012.
Why Do Teams Lose Perfect Games?
Typically, when a pitcher throws a perfect game, his team is able to provide enough offense to earn the victory. After all, it is rare for a team to be completely shut out over nine innings. However, there are several reasons why a team can lose a perfect game.
The most common reason is that the offense is unable to provide any runs for the pitcher’s perfect performance. If the opposing pitcher is throwing a great game as well and the offense is unable to score any runs, then the team will lose the game. It is also possible for the offense to score runs, but not enough to win the game.
Another reason why teams lose perfect games is because of errors made by the defense. Errors can lead to unearned runs, which can ultimately lead to a loss even if the pitcher has thrown a perfect game.
Finally, the opposing team can score a run in the bottom of the ninth inning to win the game. This has happened twice in the MLB’s history, with the last instance occurring in 2011.
Conclusion
A perfect game is a rare feat and it is an accomplishment that few pitchers will ever experience. While it is rare, it is possible to lose a perfect game due to the offense not providing enough runs, errors made by the defense, or the opposing team scoring a run in the bottom of the ninth inning. No matter what the result, a perfect game is still a great accomplishment and something that will always be remembered.