MLB's Marathon Men: Top 10 Longest Innings Ever Played

Hey baseball fans! Ever wonder which MLB games turned into true endurance tests? Today, we're diving deep into the record books to uncover the top 10 longest innings in Major League Baseball history. These are the frames that had fans on the edge of their seats (or maybe just reaching for more snacks) as teams battled it out, pitch after grueling pitch. Get ready to explore some legendary baseball feats where stamina and grit were just as important as skill.

Why Long Innings Matter

Before we jump into the list, let's talk about why these super-long innings are so memorable. First off, they're rare! Think about it: most innings wrap up in a tidy 15-20 minutes. But when an inning stretches on and on, it can completely flip the momentum of a game. A long inning can exhaust a pitcher, rattle a defense, and give an offense a huge opportunity to pile on runs.

Plus, these innings often become the stuff of legends. Players who come through with clutch hits or make game-saving plays in these situations are forever etched in baseball lore. And for fans, being there (or even watching on TV) is an experience they'll never forget. It's like witnessing a mini-game within the game, full of drama, tension, and the occasional wacky play.

So, grab your peanuts and cracker jacks, and let's get into it!

1. August 16, 1900: 17 Runs in One Inning

Picture this: It’s August 16, 1900, and the Louisville Colonels are facing off against the Chicago Colts (who would later become the Cubs). What happened next was nothing short of unbelievable. In a single, epic inning, the Colonels exploded for 17 runs! Now, I know what you're thinking: how is that even possible? Well, back then, baseball was a different game. Pitching strategies weren't as refined, and defenses weren't always airtight. Still, 17 runs is an absolutely staggering number. Imagine the energy in the ballpark as hit after hit kept coming, and the Colonels just kept running around the bases. This inning is a testament to how unpredictable and wild baseball can be, even in its early days. This is what makes it the longest inning in MLB history.

2. June 6, 1892: A Behemoth 43-Minute Inning

Let's turn the clock back to June 6, 1892. The Louisville Colonels (yes, them again!) were playing against the Baltimore Orioles. This game featured an inning that stretched for an incredible 43 minutes. In this long inning, both teams went through their batting orders multiple times, resulting in a flurry of hits, walks, and errors. The back-and-forth nature of the inning must have been exhausting for the players and fans alike. What makes this inning particularly noteworthy is not just its duration, but also the context of the era. Baseball in the late 19th century had different rules and playing styles, which contributed to longer games and innings. This marathon inning truly encapsulates the endurance and resilience of early baseball players. And hey, this incredible game may never be seen again!

3. July 16, 1996: Cardinals vs. Phillies – A Modern Marathon

Fast forward to July 16, 1996, where the St. Louis Cardinals and the Philadelphia Phillies engaged in a modern-day marathon. In the third inning, the Cardinals batted around, and then some, scoring 14 runs. This inning was a mix of everything you'd expect: hits, walks, errors, and a whole lot of frustration for the Phillies. What makes this inning stand out is that it happened in a more modern era of baseball, where pitching and defense are generally much tighter. The Cardinals' offensive explosion was a testament to their hitting prowess and the Phillies' struggles on that particular day. It’s a great example of how even in today's game, a single inning can completely change the course of a game.

4. August 18, 1883: Providence Grays vs. Philadelphia Athletics

On August 18, 1883, the Providence Grays and the Philadelphia Athletics locked horns in a game that featured an exceptionally long inning. While specific details are scarce, this inning is remembered for its remarkable length and high score. In this inning the Grays managed to score a notable amount of runs, turning the game in their favor. In that era, baseball was still evolving, and games often had a different rhythm than today. This long inning is a reminder of the game's early days and the kind of unexpected twists and turns that could happen. The long inning is a testament to the game's enduring appeal and its capacity to surprise.

5. June 10, 1953: Boston Red Sox vs. Detroit Tigers

Let's head to June 10, 1953, when the Boston Red Sox and the Detroit Tigers played an unforgettable game. This game included an inning where the Red Sox scored 17 runs. The Red Sox managed to string together hit after hit, capitalizing on errors and keeping the pressure on the Tigers' pitching. What makes this inning so impressive is not just the number of runs, but the way the Red Sox relentlessly attacked the ball. It's a classic example of a team finding its groove and completely overwhelming the opposition. This game is still talked about among Red Sox fans, and it's a testament to the explosive offensive capabilities of that era.

6. October 2, 1976: Yankees vs. Royals ALCS

In the 1976 ALCS, the New York Yankees and the Kansas City Royals battled in a legendary series. Game 6 featured an inning where the Yankees scored 8 runs, rallying back against the Royals. This inning was filled with tension, clutch hits, and controversial calls, making it an instant classic. What stands out about this inning is the high stakes: it wasn't just a regular season game; it was a crucial moment in a championship series. The Yankees' comeback in that inning fueled their momentum and helped them advance to the World Series. For fans of both teams, this inning remains a vivid memory of a hard-fought and unforgettable series.

7. July 4, 1902: Giants vs. Phillies – Independence Day Slugfest

Picture this: July 4, 1902, the New York Giants and the Philadelphia Phillies are facing off in an Independence Day game. This game turned into a slugfest, highlighted by an inning where the Giants exploded for 14 runs. The Giants hitters teed off on the Phillies' pitching, turning the game into a high-scoring affair. This inning is memorable because it happened on a special day, adding to the excitement and drama. Imagine the fans cheering and celebrating as the Giants kept scoring run after run. It's a perfect example of how baseball can provide thrilling entertainment, especially on holidays.

8. August 7, 1999: Rockies vs. Marlins – Coors Field Chaos

Let's jump to August 7, 1999, at Coors Field, where the Colorado Rockies and the Florida Marlins engaged in a wild game. Coors Field is known for its hitter-friendly environment, and this game was no exception. In one particular inning, the Rockies scored 13 runs, showcasing their offensive firepower. The inning was a mix of home runs, doubles, and singles, turning the game into a high-scoring frenzy. What makes this inning so memorable is the context of Coors Field, where big innings and lots of runs are common. It’s a great example of how the environment can influence the game and lead to some truly remarkable offensive performances.

9. April 27, 1928: Cubs vs. Reds – Wrigley Field Eruption

On April 27, 1928, the Chicago Cubs and the Cincinnati Reds played a game at Wrigley Field that featured an explosive inning. In this inning, the Cubs erupted for 15 runs, overwhelming the Reds with a barrage of hits. Wrigley Field, with its ivy-covered walls and passionate fans, provided the perfect backdrop for this offensive outburst. What stands out about this inning is the sheer dominance of the Cubs' offense. They seemed to be able to hit anything the Reds' pitchers threw, turning the game into a rout. This game is a testament to the Cubs' offensive capabilities during that era and the magic of Wrigley Field.

10. August 21, 1955: Detroit Tigers vs. Kansas City Athletics

Lastly, we go to August 21, 1955, when the Detroit Tigers faced off against the Kansas City Athletics. In this game, the Tigers had an inning where they scored 11 runs, showcasing their offensive prowess. The Tigers hitters found their rhythm and managed to string together hit after hit, putting the Athletics' pitching staff under constant pressure. This inning is a great example of how a team can suddenly catch fire and completely take over a game. For Tigers fans, this game is a reminder of the team's offensive capabilities during the 1950s.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! The top 10 longest innings in MLB history. These innings are more than just statistical anomalies; they're stories of endurance, resilience, and the unpredictable nature of baseball. From the early days of the sport to more recent high-scoring affairs, these games remind us why we love baseball. Whether it's a 17-run explosion or a 43-minute marathon, these innings have become legendary moments in the game's rich history.