Longest Baseball Game in U.S. History: A 33-Inning Marathon

October 28, 2025 By usmanthotti Sports 2 min read

Longest Baseball Game in U.S. History: A 33-Inning Marathon

On April 18, 1981, the Pawtucket Red Sox and the Rochester Red Wings embarked on a historic baseball game that would become the longest in professional baseball history. The game, held at McCoy Stadium in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, spanned 33 innings and lasted a total of 8 hours and 25 minutes.

The Game’s Progression

The matchup began at 8:25 p.m. on April 18, 1981, after a brief delay due to lighting issues. Approximately 1,740 fans were in attendance at the start. The game remained tied at 1-1 after nine innings, leading to extra innings. As the night progressed into the early hours of April 19, players and fans alike endured the marathon. By the 32nd inning, only about 20 spectators remained in the stands.

At 4:07 a.m., the game was suspended after 32 innings, still tied at 2-2. The teams resumed play on June 23, 1981, with 5,746 fans returning to witness the conclusion. In the bottom of the 33rd inning, Pawtucket’s Dave Koza hit a single that drove in the winning run, securing a 3-2 victory for the Red Sox.

Records and Notable Players

This game set several records that still stand today:

  • Most innings played in a professional baseball game: 33
  • Total time of play: 8 hours and 25 minutes
  • Most at-bats by a team in a single game: 114 by Pawtucket
  • Most strikeouts by a team in a single game: 34 by Rochester

Notably, two future Baseball Hall of Famers participated in this game. Cal Ripken Jr., playing third base for Rochester, went 2-for-13. Wade Boggs, manning third base for Pawtucket, recorded a 4-for-12 performance with a double and an RBI. Both players would make their Major League debuts shortly after this historic game.

Impact and Legacy

The 33-inning game remains a testament to the endurance and determination of both teams. Artifacts from the game, including the official scorecard, are preserved in the Baseball Hall of Fame. This marathon matchup continues to be a significant part of baseball history, illustrating the unpredictable and enduring nature of the sport.