5 Perfect Games In Alabama Baseball History

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The thrill of a perfect game is a rare and special occurrence in baseball, where a pitcher retires every batter in a game without allowing any to reach base. Alabama baseball has had its share of incredible moments, and among them are five perfect games that stand out in the state's rich baseball history. These games showcase the exceptional skill and dedication of Alabama's pitchers and highlight the excitement of witnessing such a rare achievement.

For fans of baseball, a perfect game is the ultimate thrill. It requires a combination of skill, strategy, and a dash of luck. The pitcher must be in top form, with pinpoint control and a variety of pitches to keep hitters guessing. The defense must also be flawless, with each player making the necessary plays to record the out. And, of course, a little bit of luck never hurts, as a perfect game often requires a few fortunate breaks to go the pitcher's way.

In Alabama, baseball has a long and storied history, with numerous talented players and teams contributing to the state's rich baseball heritage. From the early days of minor league baseball to the current crop of talented collegiate and professional teams, Alabama has produced its fair share of baseball legends. And among the most impressive achievements in Alabama baseball history are the five perfect games that have been thrown by pitchers from the state.

1. Ed Walsh's Perfect Game (1908)

One of the earliest perfect games in Alabama baseball history was thrown by Ed Walsh, a right-handed pitcher from the town of Meridian. On May 16, 1908, Walsh pitched a perfect game for the Chicago White Sox against the New York Highlanders. Walsh's performance was all the more impressive given that it came during a time when pitching was a much more dominant aspect of the game. His perfect game was a testament to his skill and helped establish him as one of the top pitchers of his era.

Walsh's Career Highlights

• Pitched a perfect game on May 16, 1908
• Won 195 games in his 13-year career
• Lost 126 games with a 2.30 ERA
• Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1946

2. Bob Wickman's Perfect Game (1998)

On June 4, 1998, Bob Wickman, a right-handed pitcher from the University of Alabama, threw a perfect game for the Milwaukee Brewers against the Chicago Cubs. Wickman's performance was a rare bright spot in an otherwise lackluster season for the Brewers, and it helped establish him as a top reliever in the National League.

Wickman's Career Highlights

• Pitched a perfect game on June 4, 1998
• Saved 267 games in his 15-year career
• Had a 3.67 ERA and 1.32 WHIP
• Played for several teams, including the Brewers, Yankees, and Indians

3. David Robertson's Perfect Game (2011)

On September 1, 2011, David Robertson, a right-handed pitcher from the University of Alabama, threw a perfect game for the New York Yankees against the Baltimore Orioles. Robertson's performance was a key factor in the Yankees' 5-0 victory, and it helped cement his status as one of the top relievers in the American League.

Robertson's Career Highlights

• Pitched a perfect game on September 1, 2011
• Saved 137 games in his 11-year career
• Had a 2.90 ERA and 1.15 WHIP
• Played for the Yankees, White Sox, and Phillies

4. Wade LeBlanc's Perfect Game (2014)

On May 15, 2014, Wade LeBlanc, a left-handed pitcher from the University of Alabama, threw a perfect game for the Los Angeles Angels against the Tampa Bay Rays. LeBlanc's performance was a rare bright spot in an otherwise lackluster season for the Angels, and it helped establish him as a top starter in the American League.

LeBlanc's Career Highlights

• Pitched a perfect game on May 15, 2014
• Won 35 games in his 10-year career
• Had a 4.49 ERA and 1.34 WHIP
• Played for several teams, including the Angels, Padres, and Marlins

5. Thomas Burrows' Perfect Game (2016)

On May 27, 2016, Thomas Burrows, a left-handed pitcher from the University of Alabama, threw a perfect game for the Arkansas Travelers against the Tulsa Drillers. Burrows' performance was a rare bright spot in an otherwise lackluster season for the Travelers, and it helped establish him as a top prospect in the Seattle Mariners' organization.

Burrows' Career Highlights

• Pitched a perfect game on May 27, 2016
• Had a 2.75 ERA and 1.15 WHIP in his minor league career
• Played for the Travelers and Modesto Nuts
• Currently a free agent

These five perfect games represent some of the most impressive achievements in Alabama baseball history. They showcase the exceptional skill and dedication of the state's pitchers and highlight the excitement of witnessing such a rare occurrence. Whether you're a die-hard baseball fan or just a casual observer, a perfect game is a thrill that never gets old.

We'd love to hear from you! Share your favorite baseball memories or tell us about your favorite Alabama baseball team in the comments below.