MLB's Marathon Men: Top 10 Longest Innings Ever

Oct 29, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 48 views

Hey baseball fanatics! Ever wondered about those epic battles that stretch on and on, testing the limits of endurance and strategy? Today, we're diving deep into the history books to unearth the top 10 longest innings in MLB history. Get ready to relive some nail-biting moments, legendary performances, and innings that seemed to last an eternity. These aren't just about runs and hits, they're about grit, determination, and the sheer will to win. So, grab your peanuts and cracker jacks, and let's get started!

1. The 28-Inning Marathon: Pawtucket vs. Rochester (1981)

Alright guys, let's kick things off with the granddaddy of them all: the legendary 28-inning game between the Pawtucket Red Sox and the Rochester Red Wings. This epic clash in 1981 holds the record for the longest game in professional baseball history. Imagine this: it took eight hours and twenty-five minutes to complete this game! The game was actually suspended after 32 innings and completed later. The game featured future Hall of Famers like Cal Ripken Jr. and Wade Boggs, making it even more special. The game started on April 18th and was completed on June 23rd. Both teams showcased incredible pitching performances, with the score tied at 2-2 for a whopping 20 innings! It wasn't until the 21st inning that the game saw a run. The game was suspended at 1:09 a.m. due to the curfew of the local authority. The game was resumed on June 23rd. This game is a true testament to the tenacity of both teams and remains a symbol of baseball's enduring appeal. This game featured 785 at-bats. The longest game in professional baseball history is a testament to endurance, skill, and the unpredictable nature of the sport. This single game truly tested the will of both teams.

This game is a story of grit and stamina, a testament to the enduring appeal of baseball. The battle of the pitchers, the fatigue setting in, the strategic adjustments – it's all part of what makes this game so legendary. This game wasn't just a contest; it was an experience. The intensity of this game showcases the heart and soul of baseball. The Red Sox ultimately prevailed with a score of 3-2. The memory of this game remains etched in the hearts of baseball fans everywhere. The game included future Hall of Famers, making the game even more memorable. This marathon of a game, with its twists and turns, is a reminder of the sport's unpredictability. This game became the subject of books, documentaries, and endless water-cooler conversations. The players involved, the fans who witnessed it, and the legend of the 28-inning game will forever be remembered in baseball history. This game showcased baseball's ability to create unforgettable memories. Baseball is more than just a game; it's a tapestry woven with stories like this one. The game's legacy lives on, inspiring future generations of players and fans. This game is a perfect example of what makes baseball so great: its unpredictability and its ability to create unforgettable memories. This game is a reminder of the long history of baseball.

2. The 26-Inning Extravaganza: Reading vs. Trenton (1987)

Fast forward to 1987, and we have another mind-blowing battle: the Reading Phillies taking on the Trenton Thunder. This game went on for a staggering 26 innings, showcasing the relentless spirit of minor league baseball. Just think about the sheer endurance required! Players were out there for hours, pushing their limits both physically and mentally. This game is a prime example of the unpredictable nature of baseball. The length of this game highlights the incredible resilience of these athletes. It’s not just about the final score; it’s about the journey, the struggles, and the victories along the way. Both teams displayed a remarkable level of skill and perseverance. This game is a reminder of baseball's ability to create lasting memories. The game also highlights the often-overlooked talent and dedication of players in the minor leagues. This 26-inning game had the crowd on the edge of their seats until the very end. The game is a prime example of the unpredictability of baseball.

The game went on for so long it was hard to keep track. This game is about the grit of players. The 26-inning game showed the ability to overcome adversity. The game stands as a symbol of determination, skill, and the enduring love of the game. This game is a true testament to the love of the game. This game stands out as a reminder of the challenges and rewards that come with being a baseball player. This game had everything a baseball fan could want. Baseball history is full of amazing games.

3. The 25-Inning Duel: Jacksonville vs. Durham (2007)

In 2007, the Jacksonville Suns and the Durham Bulls treated fans to a thrilling 25-inning showdown. Talk about a test of endurance! Imagine the pitchers, the fielders, and the batters, all giving it their absolute all, inning after inning. This game is a reminder of the incredible endurance and skill of baseball players. This game had fans on the edge of their seats. The game is a prime example of the unexpected events that can occur in baseball. The game is a testament to the unpredictable nature of baseball. The game highlighted the players' talent and the competitive spirit. This particular game has become part of baseball lore. This game showed the true heart of baseball. This game went down in baseball history as a contest of endurance and skill.

The game featured incredible pitching performances. This game is a symbol of the hard work and dedication of the players involved. It's a reminder of why we love baseball. This game also shows how unpredictable the game can be. The game is about the never-give-up attitude. The game is a symbol of the heart and soul of the players. The game showcased the passion and dedication of the players. This game provided an unforgettable experience for fans. This game will always be remembered. The 25-inning game is about the enduring appeal of the sport.

4. The 24-Inning Thriller: Triple-A Albuquerque vs. Colorado Springs (2013)

In 2013, the Albuquerque Isotopes and the Colorado Springs Sky Sox battled it out for 24 innings. This is a testament to the skill, stamina, and strategy of the players and coaches involved. These games are not just about the final score; they're about the journey, the struggles, and the triumphs along the way. This game featured incredible pitching and fielding plays, which made it all the more captivating. This game is another example of the unpredictability of the sport. This game is a reminder of the history of the sport.

The game highlighted the often-overlooked talent and dedication of players in the minor leagues. This 24-inning game is a reminder of the love of the game. It is a testament to the love of baseball. This game has gone down in baseball history. The players involved, the fans who witnessed it, and the legend of the 24-inning game will forever be remembered in baseball history. Baseball is a tapestry woven with stories like this one. This game's legacy lives on, inspiring future generations of players and fans. The game is a reminder of the long history of baseball.

5. The 23-Inning Battle: Pawtucket vs. Maine (1982)

Following up on the legendary 28-inning game, the Pawtucket Red Sox returned for another epic, this time a 23-inning duel against the Maine Guides in 1982. This just goes to show you that Pawtucket was not afraid of a long game! It's a reminder of the grind and determination of players in the face of exhaustion. This game highlighted the players' talent and the competitive spirit. This game also showcases the dedication and perseverance of the players involved. This particular game has become part of baseball lore.

The 23-inning game showcases the heart and soul of baseball. Baseball is more than just a game; it's a tapestry woven with stories like this one. The game's legacy lives on, inspiring future generations of players and fans. This game is a perfect example of what makes baseball so great: its unpredictability and its ability to create unforgettable memories. This game is a reminder of the long history of baseball. The game is a symbol of the heart and soul of the players. The game showcased the passion and dedication of the players. This game provided an unforgettable experience for fans.

6. The 22-Inning Game: Various Instances

There have been several instances of games lasting 22 innings throughout MLB history. These games are not as rare as the longer ones, but still showcase the incredible endurance and skill of the players involved. The games highlight the competitive spirit of the sport.

7. The 21-Inning Contests: Another Test of Endurance

Similar to the 22-inning games, 21-inning contests are another example of the incredible endurance and skill of MLB players. These games also showcase the strategic depth of baseball, with managers making critical decisions to gain an advantage. These games are about the grind and determination of players in the face of exhaustion. This game highlighted the players' talent and the competitive spirit.

The game also highlights the often-overlooked talent and dedication of players in the minor leagues. This 21-inning game is a reminder of the love of the game. This game has gone down in baseball history. Baseball is a tapestry woven with stories like this one. This game's legacy lives on, inspiring future generations of players and fans. This game is a perfect example of what makes baseball so great: its unpredictability and its ability to create unforgettable memories.

8. The 20-Inning Battles: Where Skill and Will Collide

Games that extend to 20 innings are a testament to the skill and will of the players. These games are where the rubber meets the road, and the mental and physical endurance of the athletes are tested to their limits. The games showcase the competitive spirit of the sport.

These games are a testament to the dedication of the players involved. The ability to maintain focus and execute plays for such an extended period is a remarkable feat. These games are a reminder of why fans love the sport. They're about the thrill of competition. This 20-inning game will always be remembered. Baseball history is full of amazing games. The game is about the never-give-up attitude. The game showcased the passion and dedication of the players. This game provided an unforgettable experience for fans. This game will always be remembered. The 20-inning game is about the enduring appeal of the sport.

9. The 19-Inning Games: A Test of Strategic Depth

Even 19-inning games are a test of strategic depth. Managers and coaches must make tough decisions. These games often involve strategic pitching changes, pinch hitters, and defensive adjustments. This type of game adds another layer of complexity. These games are a reminder of why fans love the sport. They're about the thrill of competition. This 19-inning game will always be remembered.

Baseball history is full of amazing games. The game is about the never-give-up attitude. The game showcased the passion and dedication of the players. This game provided an unforgettable experience for fans. This game will always be remembered. The 19-inning game is about the enduring appeal of the sport. The game's legacy lives on, inspiring future generations of players and fans. The game is a reminder of the long history of baseball.

10. The 18-Inning Grinders: A Display of Perseverance

Lastly, 18-inning games show the perseverance of the players involved. These games are where determination and skill are put to the ultimate test. It's not just about the final score; it's about the journey.

It's about the struggles and the victories along the way. These games showcase the heart and soul of baseball. These games are a reminder of why fans love the sport. They're about the thrill of competition. This 18-inning game will always be remembered. Baseball history is full of amazing games. The game is about the never-give-up attitude. The game showcased the passion and dedication of the players. This game provided an unforgettable experience for fans. This game will always be remembered. The 18-inning game is about the enduring appeal of the sport.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Long Innings

So there you have it, guys! The top 10 longest innings in MLB history. These games are more than just statistics; they're stories of human endurance, strategic brilliance, and the unwavering love of the game. They remind us why we're so passionate about baseball and its rich history. These games inspire us and serve as a testament to the sport's incredible legacy. Each long inning tells a story of perseverance, skill, and the pure love of the game. These games are a reminder of the long history of baseball. These innings are a reminder that baseball is a sport that can create unforgettable moments. These games remind us why we love baseball.

Keep your eyes on the field, baseball fans. The next epic game could be just around the corner!