Hidden Gems: Major League Baseball Records Held by Obscure Players

Baseball, with its rich tapestry of legendary players and achievements, often overshadows the remarkable feats of the less-known figures who made their mark in the game. These players, while not as famous as the stars of the sport, have etched their names into the annals of baseball history with unique and interesting records. Let's delve into some of these hidden gems from Major League Baseball (MLB).

The Single Season Hit-By-Pitch Record

One lesser-known but certainly impressive record stands out in the realm of hit-by-pitch (HBP) tallies. Ron Hunt, a player who may not be as popularized as some of the top-tier hitters, holds the modern MLB record for single season HBP with an astonishing 50 in 1971 while playing for the Montreal Expos.

To provide some context, a histogram of HBP across various MLB seasons can be truly enlightening. However, it's important to note that the second closest record comes from a pair of players, Don Baylor and Craig Biggio, with a sum total of 42 HBP each. No one else in MLB history has even approached Hunt's impressive 50 HBP record.

Hunt's strategy to "crowd the plate" was key to his impressive tally. According to accounts, he intentionally stayed in the batter's box to force pitchers to be more precise. While players are supposed to get out of the way, Hunt would simply spin in place, looking like he was dodging but effectively not moving. This unique approach resulted in him being hit by the ball 50 times in a single season!

Another interesting move that Hunt made after being hit by a pitch was truly unique—he would reach down, grab the ball that hit him, and flip it back to the pitcher! This quirky behavior set him further apart from the crowd, making him a memorable figure in baseball history.

Rare In-Game Feats

There are several rare and unusual in-game feats in MLB history that have been uncommon, if not unprecedented.

Throwing Out Three Stealing Runners in an Inning

On August 3, 1914, the New York Yankees' Les Nunamaker made history as the only catcher since 1900 to throw out three Detroit Tigers runners attempting to steal second base within the same inning. His exceptional feat highlighted his tactical prowess and defensive skills on the field.

Three Runners Thrown Out at the Plate in One Inning

In a game on April 26, 1905, Jack McCarthy, a center fielder for the Chicago Cubs, achieved another remarkable feat. With the Cubs facing a 2-1 deficit, McCarthy threw out three runners at the plate in a single inning, which helped secure a thrilling victory for his team. His batsman-like defensive skills demonstrated his multi-faceted talent and strategic thinking on the field.

Highest Career Earned Run Average (ERA) in a Single Pitch

On August 4, 1945, the Washington Senators' rookie pitcher Joe Cleary demonstrated his remarkable ineptitude in a peculiar way. Relieving Sandy Ullrich in the fourth inning, Cleary faced nine batters in a single inning, allowing five hits while walking three. The result was a devastating 189.00 ERA, a career high that secured his place in MLB history. However, his career was as short-lived as the record itself, as he never pitched again after this game. Cleary's strategic move of striking out the Sox pitcher Boo Ferris secured him the dubious honor of the highest career ERA among pitchers who retired at least one batter.

Unique Batting Achievements

Rarely does a baseball game see a batter go through a series of twists and turns, but the episode involving Jeffrey Leonard on August 21, 1979, is one such notable event. During a game between the Houston Astros and the New York Mets, Leonard had a bizarre series of at-bats. Flied out in the top of the ninth inning, he was given the chance to bat again after a timeout called by Mets shortstop Frank Taveras. This time, Leonard singled, but the hit was nullified because Mets first baseman Ed Kranepool wasn't on the field to receive it. The game continued the next night with Leonard on first base, but Jose Cruz grounded out, ending the brief but unique at-bat. The next night, Leonard went 1 for 3 in one at-bat, and his hit counted in the game's final play.

These events, while occurring under unusual circumstances, demonstrate the unpredictable nature of baseball and highlight the importance of every player, from the stars to the obscure figures, in the fabric of the game's rich history.

These lesser-known players who held remarkable records in MLB can be considered the "hidden gems" of baseball history. Their achievements, though not widely recognized, add to the rich tapestry of MLB's storied past and continue to fascinate fans and historians alike.