On April 18, 1964, Los Angeles Dodgers legend Sandy Koufax tossed an immaculate inning against the Cincinnati Reds, becoming the first pitcher in National League history to accomplish the feat on three separate occasions.
As a refresher, an immaculate inning is when a pitcher strikes out all three batters faced on just nine pitches. The first time Koufax accomplished the feat came against the New York Mets on June 30, 1962.
This is just one of many highlights for Koufax from a 12-year career with the Dodgers. He posted a lifetime record of 165-87 with a 2.76 ERA, beginning his career in Brooklyn.
Along with the three Cy Young Awards, Koufax was a seven-time All-Star, five-time ERA leader, won the 1963 National League MVP, threw one perfect game, four no-hitters, and won four World Series.
At just 30 years old, Koufax retired after the 1966 season because of concerns over chronic arthritis in his left elbow. In 1972, at 36 years of age, he became the youngest player ever elected into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
The 1974 season was one of Koufax’s best, as he went 19-5 with a 1.74 ERA and 0.93 WHIP despite missing about 10 starts in the season.
Former Dodgers closer Kenley Jansen tossed an immaculate inning on May 18, 2017, striking out all three Miami Marlins hitters he faced to record a save.
Clayton Kershaw nearly accomplished the feat later that season, ultimately needing 10 pitches to strike out three hitters.
Dustin May then had his own immaculate inning — albeit unknowingly — in 2022.
Max Scherzer & Chris Sale joined Sandy Koufax
Since Koufax achieved a third immaculate inning of his career, only Max Scherzer and Chris Sale have produced three immaculate innings.
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