Single Game Strikeout Record: MLB History

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In baseball, a strikeout is a crucial moment, showcasing the pitcher's dominance or the batter's struggle. But who holds the record for the most strikeouts in a single game? Let's delve into MLB history to uncover this impressive feat.

The MLB Record Holder

As of today, the record for the most strikeouts in a single MLB game is held by Tom Cheney. On September 12, 1962, Cheney, pitching for the Washington Senators, struck out 21 batters in a 16-inning game against the Baltimore Orioles. This extraordinary performance has remained unmatched for decades.

Key Stats from Cheney's Record Game:

  • Date: September 12, 1962
  • Pitcher: Tom Cheney
  • Team: Washington Senators
  • Opponent: Baltimore Orioles
  • Strikeouts: 21
  • Innings Pitched: 16

Other Notable Performances

While Cheney's record stands supreme, several other pitchers have come close to matching his achievement. Here are a few notable performances: — Gypsy Rose: Crime Scene Photos Released

  1. Randy Johnson: Johnson recorded 20 strikeouts in a 9-inning game on May 8, 2001, for the Arizona Diamondbacks against the Cincinnati Reds.
  2. Roger Clemens: Clemens achieved 20 strikeouts in a 9-inning game twice in his career, once in 1986 and again in 1996.
  3. Kerry Wood: Wood also recorded 20 strikeouts in a 9-inning game on May 6, 1998, for the Chicago Cubs against the Houston Astros.

20 Strikeouts in a 9-Inning Game:

Several pitchers have reached the 20-strikeout mark in a 9-inning game. Here's a quick list:

  • Max Scherzer
  • Chris Sale
  • Corey Kluber

Why Cheney's Record is So Hard to Break

Cheney's record is particularly impressive because it occurred in a 16-inning game. This meant he had to maintain his stamina and effectiveness over a prolonged period. Modern baseball strategies often involve pulling pitchers earlier in games to keep them fresh, making it less likely that a pitcher will have the opportunity to accumulate so many strikeouts. — NFL Tonight: Schedule, How To Watch, And More

The Future of the Record

Could Cheney's record ever be broken? While it's impossible to predict the future, the game of baseball is constantly evolving. Pitchers are becoming more specialized, and strategies are becoming more refined. However, the combination of skill, endurance, and opportunity required to strike out 21 batters in a single game remains a monumental challenge.

Whether or not Cheney's record is ever broken, his performance remains one of the most remarkable achievements in baseball history. It stands as a testament to the incredible skill and endurance of pitchers in Major League Baseball. — Andi Pink: Everything You Need To Know

For more baseball history and records, visit MLB.com.