Introduction to the Highest Scoring Game in MLB History
MLB (Major League Baseball) is one of the most popular professional sports leagues in the world. It has a long and storied history, with the first professional teams forming in the late 19th century. Baseball has seen some incredible games over the years, with some of the most memorable being the highest scoring game in MLB history.
The game was played on August 25th, 1922 between the Chicago Cubs and the Philadelphia Phillies at Wrigley Field. This game was an absolute slugfest, with the Phillies winning by a score of 26-23 in a record-breaking game. In this article, we will take a look at the highest scoring game in MLB history, its key players, and some of the records that were set.
The Teams Involved
The two teams involved in this game were the Chicago Cubs and the Philadelphia Phillies. The Cubs were managed by Bill Killefer and the Phillies were managed by Pat Moran. Both teams were strong contenders in the National League in 1922 and had been battling for first place all season.
The Cubs were led by their star player, shortstop Rogers Hornsby. Hornsby was one of the best players in the league and had led the Cubs to the 1921 World Series. He would go on to have a Hall of Fame career, winning two MVP awards and a batting title.
The Phillies were led by star first baseman Cy Williams. Williams was a four-time All-Star and was the National League MVP in 1923. He was one of the best players of his era and is a member of the Phillies’ Hall of Fame.
The Game Itself
The game started off with the Cubs taking an early lead, scoring four runs in the first inning. However, the Phillies quickly responded with five runs in the second inning to take the lead. From there, the game was an absolute slugfest, with both teams scoring in nearly every inning. The Phillies ended up taking the lead in the seventh inning and never looked back, eventually winning by a score of 26-23.
The game was a record-breaking affair, with a total of 49 runs being scored. This was the most runs scored in a single game in MLB history and still stands as the record today. In addition, there were a total of 37 hits in the game, which is also a record. Both teams also set team records for most runs scored in a game, with the Phillies scoring 26 and the Cubs scoring 23.
Key Players
There were several key players involved in this game, both for the Cubs and the Phillies.
For the Cubs, the star of the game was Rogers Hornsby. Hornsby went 3-for-5 with a home run, two doubles, and four RBI. He was the driving force behind the Cubs’ offense and almost single-handedly kept them in the game.
For the Phillies, the star of the game was Cy Williams. Williams went 5-for-7 with three home runs, a double, and seven RBI. He was the driving force behind the Phillies’ offense and was a major factor in their victory.
Other Notable Performances
In addition to Hornsby and Williams, there were some other notable performances in this game.
For the Cubs, second baseman Sparky Adams went 4-for-5 with two doubles, a triple, and four RBI. Outfielder Hack Wilson also had a good game, going 3-for-5 with a home run and three RBI.
For the Phillies, first baseman Johnny Mokan went 4-for-6 with a double and four RBI. Outfielder Jimmy Welsh also had a good game, going 4-for-5 with three RBI.
Records Set
This game set several records, both individual and team.
Individual Records
- Cy Williams: Most total bases in a single game (17)
- Rogers Hornsby: Most runs scored in a single game (5)
- Jimmy Welsh: Most hits in a single game (4)
- Sparky Adams: Most extra-base hits in a single game (3)
- Johnny Mokan: Most RBI in a single game (4)
Team Records
- Chicago Cubs: Most runs scored in a single game (23)
- Philadelphia Phillies: Most runs scored in a single game (26)
- MLB: Most runs scored in a single game (49)
- MLB: Most hits in a single game (37)
Legacy of the Game
This game is still remembered today as one of the most exciting and memorable games in MLB history. The record-breaking performance by both teams is still talked about, and it is often cited as one of the greatest games ever played.
The game also had a lasting effect on both teams. The Cubs would go on to win the National League pennant that year, and the Phillies would go on to win the World Series. Both teams were able to use this game as a springboard for success, and it is still remembered fondly by fans of both teams.
Conclusion
The highest scoring game in MLB history was an absolute slugfest between the Chicago Cubs and Philadelphia Phillies on August 25th, 1922. It was an incredible game that featured some of the best players of the era, and it set several individual and team records that still stand today. The game is still remembered fondly by fans of both teams, and it serves as a reminder of the incredible things that can happen on a baseball field.