How many triple plays in mlb history?

By HotBotUpdated: September 20, 2024

A triple play in Major League Baseball (MLB) is one of the rarest and most exciting events in the sport. It occurs when three outs are recorded in one continuous play. As of the end of the 2023 MLB season, there have been 733 triple plays in the history of MLB. This figure includes both regular season and postseason games. Let’s delve deeper into the fascinating world of triple plays, exploring their history, types, notable instances, and other intriguing facts.

The Origins and History of Triple Plays

The first recorded triple play in MLB history occurred on May 7, 1876, during a game between the Hartford Dark Blues and the Louisville Grays. The rules and style of play were significantly different back then, but the triple play remains a testament to defensive prowess and quick thinking.

Throughout the years, triple plays have been celebrated as rare gems of baseball strategy and skill. The frequency of triple plays has fluctuated over the decades, often influenced by changes in rules, strategies, and the overall pace of the game.

Types of Triple Plays

Unassisted Triple Plays

The unassisted triple play is the rarest form of triple play. It occurs when a single player makes all three outs by themselves. As of 2023, there have been only 15 unassisted triple plays in MLB history. The most recent one was turned by Eric Bruntlett of the Philadelphia Phillies on August 23, 2009, against the New York Mets.

Assisted Triple Plays

Most triple plays are of the assisted variety, involving multiple players. These are further categorized based on the sequence and type of outs:

• Line Drive Triple Plays: These occur when a fielder catches a line drive, then quickly throws to base(s) to double off runners.
• Ground Ball Triple Plays: These involve fielders making plays on ground balls, often resulting in force outs and tag outs.
• Fly Ball Triple Plays: These are similar to line drive triple plays but occur on fly balls caught in the outfield.

Notable Triple Plays

The Most Recent Triple Play

The latest triple play in MLB occurred on September 27, 2023, during a game between the Minnesota Twins and the Detroit Tigers. The Twins executed a 5-4-3 triple play, with the third baseman catching a line drive, throwing to second base for the second out, and the second baseman relaying to first base for the final out.

Historic Triple Plays

Several triple plays stand out in the annals of baseball history due to their unique circumstances or key moments:

• 1920 World Series: The only triple play in World Series history happened in Game 5 between the Cleveland Indians and the Brooklyn Robins. Cleveland's Bill Wambsganss made an unassisted triple play.
• Triple Play by the Same Team in Consecutive Innings: On July 17, 1990, the Minnesota Twins turned two triple plays in the same game against the Boston Red Sox, marking the only time this has happened in MLB history.
• The First 8-5 Triple Play: On May 8, 1923, the New York Yankees executed the first 8-5 triple play in MLB history, involving an outfielder (center fielder) and a third baseman.

Statistical Insights

Triple plays are not evenly distributed across teams or seasons. Some teams have turned more triple plays than others, often influenced by factors such as defensive strategies and player skills.

Teams with the Most Triple Plays

The New York Yankees hold the record for the most triple plays by a single team, with 27 recorded as of 2023. The Boston Red Sox and Chicago White Sox follow closely behind.

Seasons with the Most Triple Plays

The 1979 MLB season saw an unusually high number of triple plays, with eight recorded throughout the year. This spike is partly attributed to the aggressive base-running strategies employed during that era.

Rarely Known Facts About Triple Plays

The Role of Positioning

Defensive positioning plays a crucial role in executing a triple play. Infield shifts and outfield alignments can increase the likelihood of fielders being in the right place at the right time to turn a triple play.

Impact of Technology

Advancements in technology, such as instant replay and advanced analytics, have changed how triple plays are viewed and analyzed. These tools provide deeper insights into the mechanics and probabilities of triple plays.

Psychological Impact

Executing a triple play can have a significant psychological impact on both teams. For the defensive team, it can serve as a morale booster and momentum changer. Conversely, for the offensive team, it can be a demoralizing event, potentially affecting subsequent at-bats.

The Future of Triple Plays

As baseball continues to evolve, the nature and frequency of triple plays may change. Factors such as rule changes, advancements in player training, and evolving strategies will all play a role in shaping the future landscape of triple plays in MLB.

Triple plays, with their blend of skill, strategy, and serendipity, will always hold a special place in the hearts of baseball fans. Their rarity and excitement make them a cherished part of the game, a testament to the unpredictable and thrilling nature of baseball.

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