Perfect game

Since 1991, a perfect game has been defined by Major League Baseball as a game in which a pitcher pitches a complete game victory that lasts a minimum of nine innings and in which no opposition player reaches first base. In short, the pitcher cannot allow any hits, walks, hit batters, or any other baserunners for any reason, even if they are thrown out trying for extra bases. By definition, such games must also be shutouts. Since the pitcher cannot control whether or not his teammates commit any errors, the pitcher must be backed up by a solid defense to pitch a perfect game. However, an error which does not allow a baserunner, such as a misplayed foul ball, may occur in a perfect game.

References

• 27 Men Out, Michael Coffey, Atria Books, NY, 2004
• The Perfect Game: A Classic Collection of Facts..., Mark Alvarez, Taylor, 1993
• Perfect!, Ron Meyer, 1991
• Perfect, James Buckley, Jr, 2002