On Sunday, the renowned closer Aroldis Chapman added a remarkable achievement to Major League Baseball history by becoming the second Cuban-born pitcher to record an inning with four strikeouts, a statistical rarity in the sport. This uncommon occurrence unfolded when a batter struck out but reached first base due to a wild pitch from the celebrated Red Sox pitcher.
Chapman, often referred to as "The Missile," completed the inning with a total of four strikeouts, a feat previously accomplished by his fellow Cuban, Mike Cuéllar, on May 29, 1970, with the Baltimore Orioles during the fourth inning, as reported by journalist Francys Romero on Facebook.
Chapman's Stellar 2025 Season
Aside from the intriguing four-strikeout inning, Chapman is experiencing a phenomenal 2025 season. He has successfully saved 29 games, boasts an extraordinarily low ERA of 0.98, and is on an impressive streak of 17 consecutive outings without allowing a hit. His dominance on the mound not only solidifies his status as one of the top closers today but also places him among the most formidable pitchers in MLB history.
Frequently Asked Questions About Aroldis Chapman's Historic Achievement
How rare is a four-strikeout inning in MLB?
A four-strikeout inning is an uncommon event in Major League Baseball, occurring when a batter reaches first base after a strikeout due to a wild pitch or passed ball. This makes it possible for a pitcher to record an additional strikeout in the inning.
Who was the first Cuban pitcher to achieve this feat?
Mike Cuéllar was the first Cuban-born pitcher to achieve a four-strikeout inning, doing so on May 29, 1970, while playing for the Baltimore Orioles.