Top 10 Longest MLB Games Ever Played: Records & History

The longest MLB games in history are legendary clashes of endurance, strategy, and sheer will. These marathon matchups, stretching far beyond the typical three-hour affair, have etched themselves into baseball lore, showcasing incredible pitching performances, clutch hitting (or lack thereof), and a test of mental fortitude unlike any other. These games often defy expectations, turning ordinary players into overnight heroes or scapegoats. Fans who stay until the bitter end, or those who tune in late and find themselves unable to look away, are treated to a unique spectacle that embodies the unpredictable nature of baseball. What makes these games so captivating is not just their length, but the unfolding drama, the strategic decisions made under immense pressure, and the collective experience shared by players and fans alike. The record-breaking contests are a testament to the enduring appeal of baseball, where anything can happen, and sometimes, it does, for an incredibly long time. So, let's dive into the details of the top 10 longest MLB games ever played, exploring the key moments, the standout performances, and the historical significance of each marathon matchup. Get ready to relive some of the most unforgettable moments in baseball history.

1. The 1984 White Sox vs. Brewers Marathon (25 Innings)

Leading the charge, we have the epic clash between the Chicago White Sox and the Milwaukee Brewers on May 8-9, 1984. This longest MLB game stretched an astounding 25 innings and lasting a whopping 8 hours and 6 minutes. This game began on a Tuesday night at Comiskey Park in Chicago and wasn't decided until the wee hours of Wednesday morning. For perspective, that's longer than many people's entire workday! The White Sox emerged victorious, clinching a 7-6 win, but not without an incredible display of perseverance from both sides. What made this game so memorable? Well, think about the pitching changes, the strategic decisions, and the sheer exhaustion of the players involved. Many of the players, accustomed to a nine-inning game, were pushed far beyond their limits. The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams having opportunities to score. However, timely defensive plays and clutch pitching kept the game tied for hours. It was a war of attrition, a battle of wills, and a testament to the resilience of these athletes. Even the fans who stayed until the end were exhausted, but they witnessed a piece of baseball history that they would never forget. The game is often cited as an example of the unpredictable nature of baseball and the ability of players to rise to the occasion, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. The victory for the White Sox was a sweet one, but both teams emerged with a newfound respect for their opponents and for the grueling nature of the game of baseball.

2. The 1920 Dodgers vs. Braves Showdown (26 Innings)

Next up, we travel back in time to May 1, 1920, where the Brooklyn Dodgers and Boston Braves locked horns in a historic 26-inning tie. Yes, you read that right – a tie! Back in those days, games could end in a draw due to darkness or mutual agreement, and that's precisely what happened here. The game lasted 3 hours and 50 minutes, a relatively short time compared to modern marathon games, but still an incredible feat considering the era. The score remained a tense 1-1 stalemate, showcasing exceptional pitching and defense from both sides. The pitchers of that era were known for their stamina, often completing entire games. This contest was a prime example of that, with both starters going deep into extra innings. There were few opportunities to score as the pitchers were in command. Even though the game ended in a tie, it was a memorable encounter that highlighted the competitive spirit of the league. It's a reminder of a different era in baseball, a time when pitchers were workhorses and games were often decided by small margins. While today's fans might find it unusual for a game to end in a tie, it was a common occurrence in the early days of baseball. The 1920 Dodgers-Braves game remains a fascinating piece of baseball history, a testament to the enduring appeal of the sport and the dedication of the players who graced the field.

3. The 1967 Angels vs. Red Sox Epic (25 Innings)

The California Angels and Boston Red Sox battled through an arduous 25 innings on September 1, 1967. This classic MLB game stretched for 6 hours and 34 minutes, showcasing a phenomenal pitching duel and nail-biting tension. The Angels ultimately prevailed with a 7-6 victory. This game was a testament to the resilience of both teams. The pitchers were the stars of the show, with both starters going deep into the game and relievers stepping up to keep the score tied. There were numerous opportunities for either team to score, but timely defensive plays and clutch pitching kept the game deadlocked for hours. It was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading blows and refusing to give in. As the game wore on, exhaustion set in, but the players dug deep and continued to battle. The fans in attendance were treated to a memorable spectacle, witnessing a piece of baseball history unfold before their eyes. The Angels' victory was a hard-fought one, but both teams emerged with a newfound respect for their opponents and for the grueling nature of the game. The game is remembered as a classic example of the drama and excitement that baseball can provide, a reminder of why the sport is so beloved by fans around the world.

4. The 1989 Dodgers vs. Expos Grind (22 Innings)

On August 23, 1989, the Los Angeles Dodgers and Montreal Expos engaged in a 22-inning marathon. This extended MLB game tested the endurance of both teams, lasting 6 hours and 22 minutes. The Dodgers emerged victorious with a 1-0 shutout win, thanks to outstanding pitching and a timely hit. This game was a classic pitching duel, with both starters dominating the opposition. Runs were hard to come by, and the tension mounted as the game wore on. The Expos had opportunities to score, but the Dodgers' defense held firm, preventing them from breaking the deadlock. As the game entered extra innings, both teams relied on their bullpens to keep the score tied. The Dodgers finally broke through in the 22nd inning, scoring the winning run and securing a hard-fought victory. This game was a testament to the importance of pitching and defense, showcasing the ability of both teams to grind out a win. The Dodgers' victory was a sweet one, but both teams emerged with a newfound respect for their opponents and for the grueling nature of the game. The game is remembered as a classic example of the drama and excitement that baseball can provide, a reminder of why the sport is so beloved by fans around the world.

5. The 2011 Cardinals vs. Marlins Duel (20 Innings)

In a more recent memory, the St. Louis Cardinals and Florida Marlins battled for 20 innings on August 28, 2011. This modern MLB marathon lasted 6 hours and 9 minutes, ending with the Cardinals securing a 2-1 victory. This game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams having opportunities to score. However, timely defensive plays and clutch pitching kept the game tied for hours. The Cardinals were in a tight race for a playoff spot, and every game was crucial. The Marlins, on the other hand, were looking to play spoiler and upset the Cardinals' chances. As the game entered extra innings, the tension mounted, and both teams battled to break the deadlock. The Cardinals finally broke through in the 20th inning, scoring the winning run and securing a crucial victory. This game was a testament to the importance of resilience and determination, showcasing the ability of the Cardinals to grind out a win when it mattered most. The victory was a sweet one for the Cardinals, who were able to maintain their position in the playoff race. The game is remembered as a classic example of the drama and excitement that baseball can provide, a reminder of why the sport is so beloved by fans around the world.

6. The 1987 Blue Jays vs. Tigers Battle (22 Innings)

The Toronto Blue Jays and Detroit Tigers faced off in a 22-inning contest on June 14, 1987. This long MLB game stretched for 6 hours and 15 minutes, with the Blue Jays ultimately winning 3-2. This game was a classic example of a pitchers' duel, with both starters dominating the opposition. Runs were hard to come by, and the tension mounted as the game wore on. The Tigers had opportunities to score, but the Blue Jays' defense held firm, preventing them from breaking the deadlock. As the game entered extra innings, both teams relied on their bullpens to keep the score tied. The Blue Jays finally broke through in the 22nd inning, scoring the winning run and securing a hard-fought victory. This game was a testament to the importance of pitching and defense, showcasing the ability of both teams to grind out a win. The Blue Jays' victory was a sweet one, but both teams emerged with a newfound respect for their opponents and for the grueling nature of the game. The game is remembered as a classic example of the drama and excitement that baseball can provide, a reminder of why the sport is so beloved by fans around the world.

7. The 1993 Phillies vs. Padres Marathon (20 Innings)

On August 25, 1993, the Philadelphia Phillies and San Diego Padres played a 20-inning marathon. This enduring MLB game lasted 6 hours and 23 minutes, with the Phillies winning 7-6. This game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading blows and refusing to give in. The lead changed hands several times, and the tension mounted as the game wore on. The Padres had opportunities to score, but the Phillies' defense held firm, preventing them from breaking the deadlock. As the game entered extra innings, both teams relied on their bullpens to keep the score tied. The Phillies finally broke through in the 20th inning, scoring the winning run and securing a hard-fought victory. This game was a testament to the importance of resilience and determination, showcasing the ability of both teams to grind out a win. The Phillies' victory was a sweet one, but both teams emerged with a newfound respect for their opponents and for the grueling nature of the game. The game is remembered as a classic example of the drama and excitement that baseball can provide, a reminder of why the sport is so beloved by fans around the world.

8. The 2013 Blue Jays vs. Rangers Saga (18 Innings)

The Toronto Blue Jays and Texas Rangers battled for 18 innings on August 11, 2013. This memorable MLB game lasted 6 hours and 32 minutes, with the Rangers winning 4-3. This game was a classic pitching duel, with both starters dominating the opposition. Runs were hard to come by, and the tension mounted as the game wore on. The Blue Jays had opportunities to score, but the Rangers' defense held firm, preventing them from breaking the deadlock. As the game entered extra innings, both teams relied on their bullpens to keep the score tied. The Rangers finally broke through in the 18th inning, scoring the winning run and securing a hard-fought victory. This game was a testament to the importance of pitching and defense, showcasing the ability of both teams to grind out a win. The Rangers' victory was a sweet one, but both teams emerged with a newfound respect for their opponents and for the grueling nature of the game. The game is remembered as a classic example of the drama and excitement that baseball can provide, a reminder of why the sport is so beloved by fans around the world.

9. The 2014 Angels vs. Athletics Clash (19 Innings)

The Los Angeles Angels and Oakland Athletics played a 19-inning game on April 29, 2014. This extended MLB contest lasted 6 hours and 35 minutes, with the Athletics winning 3-2. This game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading blows and refusing to give in. The lead changed hands several times, and the tension mounted as the game wore on. The Angels had opportunities to score, but the Athletics' defense held firm, preventing them from breaking the deadlock. As the game entered extra innings, both teams relied on their bullpens to keep the score tied. The Athletics finally broke through in the 19th inning, scoring the winning run and securing a hard-fought victory. This game was a testament to the importance of resilience and determination, showcasing the ability of both teams to grind out a win. The Athletics' victory was a sweet one, but both teams emerged with a newfound respect for their opponents and for the grueling nature of the game. The game is remembered as a classic example of the drama and excitement that baseball can provide, a reminder of why the sport is so beloved by fans around the world.

10. The 2019 Red Sox vs. Dodgers Marathon (18 Innings)

Rounding out our list, we have the Boston Red Sox and Los Angeles Dodgers facing off in an 18-inning battle during the 2019 World Series. This recent MLB marathon lasted 7 hours and 20 minutes, with the Dodgers emerging victorious 3-2. This World Series game was a classic example of a pitchers' duel, with both starters dominating the opposition. Runs were hard to come by, and the tension mounted as the game wore on. The Red Sox had opportunities to score, but the Dodgers' defense held firm, preventing them from breaking the deadlock. As the game entered extra innings, both teams relied on their bullpens to keep the score tied. The Dodgers finally broke through in the 18th inning, scoring the winning run and securing a hard-fought victory. This game was a testament to the importance of pitching and defense, showcasing the ability of both teams to grind out a win. The Dodgers' victory was a sweet one, as they secured a crucial win in the World Series. The game is remembered as a classic example of the drama and excitement that baseball can provide, a reminder of why the sport is so beloved by fans around the world.

These longest MLB games stand as testaments to the enduring spirit of baseball, where anything can happen, and sometimes, it happens for a very, very long time. They remind us of the dedication, skill, and sheer willpower of the players who take the field, and the unforgettable moments they create for fans around the world.