Expert: Geoff - 9/11/2007

Question
Hi Geoff,
I am trying to figure out the highest number of pitches, during one single at bat, a player has had before striking out, walking, or getting a hit. Do you know this?  (Basically, for one single player, at one visit at bat - what is the most number of pitches he has received)?

If you could answer this, that would be most helpful.  Thanks!!

Answer
Hi Lisa,

Thanks for writing.

There is no official record for most pitches faced in one plate appearance or most foul balls in one plate appearance.  Every pitch of every game wasn't tracked as closely as they are now until the late 1980's.  There is a legend that Roy Thomas who played 100+ years ago had a 22 pitch at-bat.

More recently - and well documented - is an 18 pitch at-bat that ended in a home run.  Earlier this season Boston's Dustin Pedroia hit 14 consecutive foul balls before the home run.

Best Wishes,

Geoff