Longest Inning Ever Played In MLB History?

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Baseball, America's pastime, is full of records, milestones, and quirky statistics. Among these, the length of an inning can sometimes stretch to unimaginable proportions. So, what was the longest inning in MLB history? Let's dive into the annals of baseball lore.

The Record-Breaking Inning

The longest inning in MLB history occurred on May 1, 1920, in a game between the Brooklyn Robins (later known as the Dodgers) and the Boston Braves. This single inning lasted a whopping 1 hour and 5 minutes.

Key Highlights of the Inning:

  • The inning was the sixth of the game.
  • The Brooklyn Robins batted 14 players.
  • They scored 4 runs.
  • There were 3 errors committed during the inning.
  • The Boston Braves also made multiple pitching changes to try and stop the bleeding.

Why So Long?

Several factors contributed to this unusually long inning:

  • Multiple Pitching Changes: Managers often make pitching changes to gain an advantage, which can prolong an inning.
  • Errors: Defensive miscues can extend innings by giving the batting team extra opportunities.
  • Base on Balls: Walks contribute to longer innings, increasing the number of plate appearances.
  • Hits: Obviously, the more hits in an inning, the longer it will last.

Impact and Legacy

While the game itself might be lost to the mists of time for many fans, the record for the longest inning remains a fascinating footnote in baseball history. It serves as a reminder of how unpredictable and occasionally absurd the game can be.

Modern Baseball and Long Innings

Though it’s unlikely any inning will stretch to 65 minutes today, modern baseball still sees its share of extended innings. Rule changes, pitching strategies, and offensive trends all play a role.

  • Increased Pitching Changes: More specialized bullpens lead to frequent pitching changes.
  • Emphasis on Power Hitting: Teams often focus on home runs, leading to more drawn-out at-bats.
  • Advanced Metrics: Managers use detailed analytics to optimize every pitching matchup.

Conclusion

The longest inning in MLB history—the Brooklyn Robins' marathon sixth inning against the Boston Braves—stands as a testament to the game's enduring appeal. While baseball evolves, the allure of these unique records keeps fans engaged and reminds us of the sport's rich and colorful history. Who knows? Maybe someday, we'll see this record challenged. Until then, we can marvel at the sheer endurance displayed on that day in 1920.

Further Reading: For more interesting baseball facts and records, check out the MLB official website or reputable baseball history resources.