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Jiggs Donahue, Billy Gilbert, and Bill Friel (left to right) of the Milwaukee Brewers recorded the first triple play in American League history on July 14, 1901, against the Chicago White Stockings.[1]

In baseball or softball, a triple play (denoted as TP in baseball statistics) is the act of making three outs during the same play. There have only been 740 triple plays in Major League Baseball (MLB) since 1876,[1] an average of just over five per season.

They depend on a combination of two factors, which are themselves uncommon:

  • First, there must be at least two baserunners, and no outs. From analysis of all MLB games from 2011 to 2013, only 1.51% of at bats occur in such a scenario.[2] By comparison, 27.06% of at bats occur with at least one baserunner and fewer than two outs,[2] the scenario where a double play is possible.
  • Second, activity must occur during the play that enables the defense to make three outs. Common plays, such as the batter striking out or hitting a fly ball, do not normally provide an opportunity for a triple play. A ball hit sharply and directly to an infielder, who then takes very quick or unanticipated action, as well as confusion or mistakes by the baserunners, is usually needed.

In baseball scorekeeping, the abbreviation GITP can be used if the batter grounded into a triple play.[3]

Examples

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The most likely scenario for a triple play is no outs with runners on first base and second base, which has been the case for the majority of MLB triple plays.[1] In that context, two examples of triple plays are:

  • The batter hits a ground ball to the third baseman, who steps on third base to force out the runner coming from second (first out). The third baseman throws to the second baseman, who steps on second base to force out the runner coming from first (second out). The second baseman throws to the first baseman, with the throw arriving in time to force out the batter (third out). This is an example of grounding into a 5-4-3 triple play, also known as an "around the horn" triple play, per standard baseball positions.
  • The baserunners start running in an attempt to steal or execute a hit and run play, and the batter hits a line drive to the second baseman, who catches it (first out). The second baseman throws to the shortstop, who steps on second base before the runner who started there can tag up (second out). The shortstop throws to the first baseman, who steps on first base before the runner who started there can tag up (third out). This is an example of lining out into a 4-6-3 triple play. Some triple plays can involve only two players. For example, if the pitcher catches a line drive (first out) then throws to the shortstop who steps on second base for a runner who fails to tag up (second out) and tags the runner from first before that runner can return to first (third out). This is a 1-6 triple play; similarly, instead of the shortstop, the play might involve the second baseman tagging second (second out) and the runner (third out), resulting in a 1-4 triple play. Note that, in either situation, the second and third outs can be reversed, e.g. the runner from first is tagged (second out), followed by second base being tagged (third out). A triple play can also involve only one defensive player. This is an unassisted triple play, described below.

Most recent MLB triple play

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The most recent triple play in MLB was turned by the Los Angeles Angels on August 12, 2025, against the Los Angeles Dodgers. In the 6th inning, with runners on first and second base, Shohei Ohtani hit a line drive back up the middle, where shortstop Zach Neto was positioned just behind second base to catch it. He was then able to step on second before Miguel Rojas could return to the bag, and throw the ball to first baseman Nolan Schanuel, who applied the tag on Dalton Rushing as he attempted to return to first.

Unassisted triple plays

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Bill Wambsganss executed an unassisted triple play in the 1920 World Series.
Main article: Unassisted triple play

The rarest type of triple play, and one of the rarest events of any kind in baseball, is for a single fielder to complete all three outs in one play. There have only been 15 unassisted triple plays in MLB history,[10] making this feat rarer than a perfect game.[11]

Typically, an unassisted triple play is achieved when a middle infielder catches a line drive near second base (first out), steps on the base before the runner who started there can tag up (second out), and then tags the runner advancing from first before he can return there (third out). Of the 15 unassisted triple plays in MLB history, 12 have been completed in this manner by a middle infielder.

Most recent MLB unassisted triple play

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The most recent MLB unassisted triple play is consistent with the above – it occurred on August 23, 2009, by second baseman Eric Bruntlett of the Philadelphia Phillies, in a game against the New York Mets. In the bottom of the ninth inning with men on first and second base, the base runners were both running when Jeff Francoeur hit a line drive very close to second base, which Bruntlett was covering. Bruntlett caught the ball (first out), stepped on second base before Luis Castillo could tag up (second out), and then tagged Daniel Murphy who was approaching from first base (third out) to end the game.[12][13] This was only the second game-ending unassisted triple play in MLB history, the first one having occurred in 1927.[14]

Unfielded triple play

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Political columnist and baseball enthusiast George Will posed one hypothetical way that a triple play could occur with no fielder touching the ball. With runners on first and second and no outs, the batter hits an infield fly, and is automatically out: one out. The runner from first passes the runner from second and is called out for that infraction: two outs. Just after that, the falling ball hits the runner from second, who is called out for interference: three outs.[15]

Whenever a batter or runner is out without a fielder touching the ball, MLB rule book section 10.09 provides for automatic putouts to be assigned by the official scorer. In this case, the first out would be credited to whoever the official scorer believes would have had the best chance of catching the infield fly. The second and third outs would be credited to the fielder(s) closest to the points the runners were, when their respective outs occurred. Under the scenario described above, the same fielder (the shortstop, for example) could be credited with all three putouts, thus attaining an unassisted triple play without having touched the ball.

While this has never occurred in a major-league game, Texas League Hall of Famer Keith Bodie told Sporting News that this event occurred in a 1986 spring training game.[16]

Odd and notable triple plays

[edit]
Joe Pignatano hit into a triple play in the final at bat of his career.
  • On September 30, 1962, in the eighth inning of the last game of the 1962 Mets' 40–120 season, facing the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field, Joe Pignatano popped into a 4-3-6 triple play in his last MLB appearance. It was also the last game for Sammy Drake and Richie Ashburn, the two runners who were tagged out. Pignatano is the only player to end his career by hitting into a triple play.[17][18][19]
  • The New York Yankees got caught in a bizarre 2-5-3-1 triple play while facing the Minnesota Twins on May 29, 1982. Roy Smalley struck out (first out), while both Yankees baserunners had taken off in an attempted double steal. The ball was thrown to third baseman Gary Gaetti, who chased baserunner Bobby Murcer back to second, where Murcer was safe. Gaetti then threw the ball to first baseman Kent Hrbek to tag baserunner Graig Nettles who was caught between first and second (second out). Meanwhile, Murcer attempted to advance from second to third again. The ball was thrown from Hrbek to third base, where pitcher Terry Felton was covering, and Felton tagged Murcer (third out).[20][21][22]
  • On August 6, 2001, catcher Scott Hatteberg of the Boston Red Sox lined out into a triple play completed by Texas Rangers shortstop Alex Rodriguez and second baseman Randy Velarde (the latter of whom completed an unassisted triple play the previous season). In his very next at-bat, Hatteberg proceeded to hit a grand slam, making him the only player to go from hitting into the best defensive play in baseball to making the best offensive play in baseball in consecutive at-bats.[23]
  • On April 14, 2002, designated hitter Ron Wright of the Seattle Mariners grounded into a triple-play in the fourth inning of the only MLB game of Wright's career (against the Rangers). With runners on first (John Olerud) and third (Ruben Sierra), Wright grounded to pitcher Kenny Rogers who threw to shortstop Alex Rodriguez to force Olerud at second (first out). Sierra, meanwhile, had broken late for home, and Rodriguez fired to catcher Bill Haselman. Haselman threw to third baseman Hank Blalock who threw to Rogers in the rundown; with Rogers tagging out Sierra (second out). Rogers then threw to second baseman Michael Young, who tagged out Wright trying to reach second (third out). The play was scored 1-6-2-5-1-4. (Wright's other plate appearances were a strikeout and grounding into a double play, thus accounted for six outs in three MLB at-bats.)[24]
  • In a rare case of a triple play without the batter hitting the ball, a September 2, 2006, game between the Seattle Mariners and the Tampa Bay Devil Rays resulted in three outs instigated from an attempt by the Mariners' Adrián Beltré to steal second base after cleanup hitter Raúl Ibañez struck out against J. P. Howell. The Devil Rays' catcher, Dioner Navarro, saw the attempt and threw the ball to shortstop Ben Zobrist, who tagged Beltré for the second out. Mariners' runner José López, who had been at third base during this play, tried to take advantage of the situation and steal home, only for Zobrist to throw the ball back to Navarro who tagged López out. At the time, the Society for American Baseball Research believed this to be the only 2-6-2 triple play in major-league history.[25][26][27]
  • On May 19, 2010, in a game between the Washington Nationals and the New York Mets, with runners on first and second for the Nationals in the bottom of the fifth inning, Cristian Guzmán hit a blooper that was caught by Ángel Pagán just before it hit the ground (first out), before throwing the ball into the infield, where catcher Henry Blanco picked it up and threw it to shortstop José Reyes covering second base to force out Liván Hernández, who had advanced to third base (second out), before the ball was thrown to first baseman Ike Davis to force out Nyjer Morgan, who had advanced to second base (third out). The play was scored 8-2-6-3. Had Pagán run with the ball in to second base, he could have completed the first unassisted triple play by an outfielder by stepping on the base to force out Hernández and tagging Morgan out.[28]
  • The Yankees also turned one of the more complicated triple plays in MLB history. On April 12, 2013, with runners on first and second in the top of the 8th inning, Baltimore batter Manny Machado hit a sharp one-hopper to Yankees second baseman Robinson Canó. Canó fielded the ball and threw to shortstop Jayson Nix, forcing baserunner Nick Markakis for the first out. Instead of going to first for a routine double play, Nix opted to throw to third baseman Kevin Youkilis, catching baserunner Alexi Casilla between second and third. Youkilis chased Casilla back towards second and threw to Nix, who returned the throw to Youkilis, who tagged Casilla for the second out. Youkilis then threw to first baseman Lyle Overbay, catching Machado in a rundown between first and second. Overbay threw back to Canó, who tagged Machado sliding into second base for the third out. The play was scored 4-6-5-6-5-3-4.[29]
  • On May 9, 2015, with runners on second and third in the top of the 2nd inning, St. Louis Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina hit a line drive that was caught by Pittsburgh Pirates second baseman Neil Walker for the first out. Walker then threw to third baseman Jung Ho Kang who stepped on third before Jhonny Peralta could tag up, for the second out. Kang, after a moment's hesitation, then threw back to Walker who stepped on second before Jason Heyward could tag up, for the third out. It was the first 4-5-4 triple play in MLB history.[30][31]
  • On April 22, 2016, in a game between the Texas Rangers and Chicago White Sox, with the bases loaded in the top of the 7th inning, Mitch Moreland of the Rangers hit a line drive to right field that was caught by Adam Eaton for the first out. Eaton threw the ball to first baseman José Abreu, who tagged baserunner Ian Desmond after he overran first base into foul territory while attempting to tag up, for the second out. Abreu then threw the ball to catcher Dioner Navarro at home. Adrián Beltré, the runner on second base, had tagged up earlier in the play and had started advancing to third; however, Prince Fielder, the runner on third base, was still at third. Navarro threw to shortstop Tyler Saladino, making Beltré continue his run towards third, which in turn made Fielder start to run towards home. Fielder was then caught in a rundown; Saladino threw to Navarro, who then threw to third baseman Todd Frazier, who tagged Fielder for the third out. The play was scored 9-3-2-6-2-5.[32][33]
  • On July 29, 2016, in a game between the Washington Nationals and the San Francisco Giants, the Giants loaded the bases with nobody out in the bottom of the 8th inning. Brandon Crawford hit a line drive that was caught by Nationals' first baseman Ryan Zimmerman for the first out. Zimmerman then touched first base before Buster Posey could tag up, for the second out. Zimmerman then threw to third baseman Anthony Rendon, who stepped on third before Denard Span could tag up, for the third out. It was the first 3-3-5 triple play in MLB history.[34]
  • On August 16, 2018, in a game between the Los Angeles Angels and the Texas Rangers, the Angels loaded the bases with nobody out in the top of the 4th inning. David Fletcher hit a grounder that was fielded by Rangers' third baseman Jurickson Profar, who had knocked down the ball with his body prior to picking it up. Profar stepped on third base to force out Eric Young Jr. for the first out, then tagged out Taylor Ward at third base (who remained at third believing Profar had caught a line drive) once Ward fell off the bag for the second out, before throwing to second baseman Rougned Odor, who stepped on second to force out Kole Calhoun for the third out, leaving Fletcher stranded at first. The play, scored a 5-5-4 fielder's choice, was the first 5-5-4 triple play of any kind since St. Louis Browns third baseman Owen Friend and second baseman Snuffy Stirnweiss turned the feat in 1950, and the first triple play fielder's choice (to not retire the batter) in the live-ball era of MLB (the most recent previous such triple play was in 1912, when the Brooklyn Dodgers turned the feat against the Cincinnati Reds).[35][26]
  • On June 17, 2021, the New York Yankees turned the first 1-3-6-2-5-6 triple play in major league history, against the Toronto Blue Jays at Sahlen Field in Buffalo, New York.[36] In the bottom of the first inning with first base open, Bo Bichette on second, Marcus Semien on third, and Yankees starter Michael King pitching and facing Vladimir Guerrero Jr. at the plate, Guerrero hit a ground ball to the third base side that was fielded by King. King threw the ball to first baseman DJ LeMahieu for the first out. During that fielding, Bichette had begun to run to third, forcing Semien to proceed to home plate. LeMahieu noticed that both Semien and Bichette were near the third base bag and threw the ball to shortstop Gleyber Torres, who promptly threw the ball to catcher Gary Sanchez, catching Semien in a rundown between third and home. Sanchez chased Semien back to third and threw the ball to third baseman Gio Urshela, who applied the tag to Semien for the second out. Urshela turned around and threw to Torres to tag out Bichette sliding into third for the final out of the inning, which was challenged by the Blue Jays, but stood as a triple play.[36]
  • On July 4, 2022, the Minnesota Twins turned the first known 8-5 triple play in MLB history, in a game against the Chicago White Sox. In the bottom of the seventh inning, with Yoán Moncada on first and Adam Engel on second, A. J. Pollock hit a deep fly ball to center, in what apparently would be an extra-base hit. However, center fielder Byron Buxton caught the ball, making Pollock the first out, while both Moncada and Engel attempted to advance without tagging up. Buxton threw the ball in to third basemen Gio Urshela between second and third. Urshela tagged out Moncada, who had already advanced past second and was attempting to return, for the second out, then stepped on second base to make Engel, who had advanced to third base, the final out.[37]
  • On June 25, 2024, the Philadelphia Phillies turned a triple play in the third inning of their 8–1 win over the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park, which marked the first successful triple play of the 2024 season, the first triple play the Phillies had turned since 2017, and the first 1-3-5 triple play in the major leagues since 1929.[38]
  • On September 24, 2024, the San Diego Padres turned a 5-4-3 triple play in the bottom of the ninth inning to end the ballgame, securing a 4–2 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium. This was the first instance in major-league history of a team executing a game-ending triple play whilst clinching a postseason berth.[39]
  • On April 25, 2025, Mets hitter Jesse Winker hit a line drive that appeared to be caught by Nationals first baseman Nathaniel Lowe, who threw to shortstop CJ Abrams for the second out, and then Abrams threw to Lowe at first base to complete the triple play, which was initially ruled as a 3-6-3 triple play but changed to a 3-6 triple play. Replays showed that the line drive actually hit the ground before settling in Lowe's glove, but instant replay in Major League Baseball cannot be used on line drives in the infield, so the play stood as ruled as a triple play.[40]

Historical totals

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The statistics below reflect historical totals through April 5, 2025.

Baserunners

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Position of baserunners when the triple play started.

Men on base Occurrences[1] Percentage Most recent
1 2 - 500 67.57  12-Aug-2025
1 2 3 130 17.57  29-Jul-2020
1 - 3 72 9.73  24-Jun-2024
- 2 3 37 5.00  17-Jun-2021
1 2 ? 1 0.14  11-Jun-1885†
Total 740 100  

† This triple play, by the New York Giants against the Providence Grays during the 1885 season, was scored as 4*-4*-3*,[1] with a newspaper account the next day naming the fielders, batter, and runners at first and second;[41] however, it is unknown if there was a runner at third base.

Outs

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Asterisks (*) denote which players recorded outs, per standard baseball positions.
Combinations that have occurred at least 10 times are listed individually.

Fielders Occurrences Percentage Most recent
5*-4*-3* 107 14.46  05-Apr-2025
6*-4*-3* 58 7.84  18-Sep-2022
4*-6*-3* 44 5.95  06-Jun-2014
3*-3*-6* 42 5.68  25-Apr-2025
6*-6*-3* 29 3.92  12-Aug-2025
4*-4*-3* 22 2.97  02-May-2017
4*-3*-6* 18 2.43  03-May-1985
1*-6*-3* 16 2.16  19-May-1997
6-4*-3*-2* 14 1.89  18-Aug-2023
5*-5*-3* 11 1.49  29-Jul-2020
5-4*-3*-2* 10 1.35  24-Aug-2014
all others 369 49.86  24-Jun-2024
Total 740 100  

Source:[1]

Cultural references

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Triple play

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from Grokipedia
A triple play is a rare defensive play in baseball in which the fielding team records three outs in a single continuous action.[1][2] To achieve a triple play, there must be fewer than two outs on the board and at least two baserunners when the ball is put into play, enabling the defense to force out runners in sequence through a combination of catches, tags, or force plays at multiple bases.[3][4] Triple plays most frequently occur on line drives caught by infielders with runners taking leads off the bases, or on ground balls hit to the left side of the infield with runners on first and second, allowing for a 5-4-3 sequence (third baseman to second baseman to first baseman).[3] The 5-4-3 triple play is the most common configuration, accounting for approximately 13.6% of all such plays in Major League Baseball (MLB) history.[5] Triple plays are exceptionally uncommon due to the precise alignment of circumstances required, including baserunners' positioning and error-free fielding; in the 2000s decade alone, only 35 were recorded across all of MLB.[3] An even rarer subset is the unassisted triple play, executed by a single fielder who records all three outs without assistance from teammates, with just 15 such instances in MLB regular-season history since the league's inception.[3] The first triple play in MLB occurred on May 13, 1876, when the New York Mutuals turned one against the Hartford Dark Blues in a National League game.[4] The inaugural unassisted triple play took place on July 19, 1909, accomplished by Cleveland Naps shortstop Neal Ball.[3] Notable examples include the only unassisted triple play in World Series history, turned by Cleveland Indians second baseman Bill Wambsganss in Game 5 of the 1920 Fall Classic.[3] 740 triple plays have been recorded in MLB history as of 2025, underscoring their status as one of the sport's most infrequent and celebrated defensive achievements.[6]

Overview

Definition and Basics

A triple play in baseball is a rare defensive play in which the fielding team records three outs during a single continuous action.[3] This play requires that the three outs occur without interruption from the initial batted ball or runner action, typically when there are runners on base and fewer than two outs in the inning, allowing for the possibility of multiple force outs or tags. It is governed by the MLB Official Baseball Rules, particularly Rule 5.09, which outlines the methods for recording outs (such as force plays, tags, or fly ball catches), and Rule 9.11, which specifies how official scorers credit assists and putouts in double and triple plays.[7] Common scenarios for a triple play often involve bases loaded with zero or one out, where a ground ball leads to a force out at home plate, followed by throws to second and first base to retire the other runners under force. Alternatively, it can arise from runners on first and second with fewer than two outs, where a line drive is caught and doubled off the runners before a throw to first retires the batter. These plays rely on quick fielding, accurate throws, and exploitation of force situations or runner errors.[4] The first recognized triple play in Major League Baseball history occurred on May 13, 1876, during a National League game when the New York Mutuals turned a 4-3-4 play against the Hartford Dark Blues in the fifth inning.

Rarity and Significance

Triple plays in baseball are exceptionally rare due to the precise alignment of circumstances required for their execution. They typically occur in specific baserunning configurations, such as runners on first and second base with no outs, where the batter hits a ground ball that allows for a double play, which can then extend to the third out if the trailing runner is caught straying from the base. Alternatively, they often stem from a line drive caught by an infielder, with runners who have taken off on the pitch or made a poor read, enabling quick tags and throws to multiple bases. These scenarios demand not only defensive precision but also opponent errors, such as baserunners leaving too early or failing to anticipate the play, which further limits their frequency.[1][6] In Major League Baseball history, only 740 triple plays have been recorded since 1876 through the 2025 season, averaging just over five per year overall but dropping to approximately 3.7 per season since 2000 amid increased strikeouts and fewer balls in play. This contrasts sharply with double plays, which number in the thousands annually—around 4,000 league-wide in recent seasons—highlighting the triple play's scarcity as a defensive feat.[6][8] The infrequency arises partly from historical shifts in the game, including faster baserunners and more strategic at-bats that reduce opportunities for ground balls with multiple runners aboard.[6][4][1] Despite their rarity, triple plays hold immense strategic significance, often dramatically shifting game momentum by abruptly ending an inning and quashing potential rallies with multiple runners on base. By recording three outs in one continuous action, they prevent runs that could otherwise score, providing a psychological boost to the defense and deflating the offense in high-leverage moments. These plays are frequently celebrated as highlight-reel moments for their athleticism and timing, underscoring their role in pivotal game situations. In response, defenses in scenarios with runners on first and second or bases loaded adjust infield positioning to prioritize double-play opportunities, staying alert to extend throws for a potential third out, thereby emphasizing proactive fielding in runner-heavy innings.[1][6]

Mechanics and Variations

Assisted Triple Plays

An assisted triple play in baseball involves two or more fielders recording three outs through a series of assists and putouts on a single play, most commonly initiated by a ground ball or line drive that creates force-out opportunities at multiple bases.[1] Unlike rarer variants, these plays require coordinated throws among fielders to retire baserunners and the batter efficiently. They typically occur with the bases loaded and no outs, or with runners on first and second and less than two outs, allowing force plays to chain together for all three outs.[9] The most prevalent sequences feature infield relays, with the 5-4-3 play—third baseman to second baseman to first baseman—occurring 95 times in major league history as of 2019 according to detailed play-by-play analysis. In a classic 5-4-3 example with bases loaded, the third baseman fields a grounder near the bag, steps on third base to force out the runner advancing from second (first out), throws to the second baseman who tags the bag for the force out of the runner from first (second out), and the second baseman relays to the first baseman to retire the batter at first (third out).[10][11] Similarly, the 6-4-3 sequence—shortstop to second to first—has been executed 56 times as of 2019, often on a grounder to shortstop that follows a comparable force-out pattern starting at second base.[10] Extended sequences like 6-4-3-2 arise when a runner from third attempts to score, prompting an additional throw from the first baseman to the catcher at home plate to tag the runner for the final out; 14 such instances were recorded as of 2019.[10] These plays predominantly involve infielders, including the shortstop (position 6), second baseman (4), first baseman (3), and third baseman (5), who must execute precise, rapid transfers to exploit the force situations. Outfielders rarely participate in assists for triple plays, as the action usually unfolds within the infield on contact plays.[9] For instance, a grounder to third with bases loaded can lead to a 5-4-3-1 sequence if the relay extends to the pitcher covering first base after the initial outs, though such variations are less common than the core infield circuits.[10]

Unassisted Triple Plays

An unassisted triple play occurs when a single defensive player records all three outs in a continuous play without assistance from any teammates. This rare feat typically unfolds when an infielder catches a sharply hit line drive for the first out, then executes additional putouts by tagging a base runner and touching a base, capitalizing on the runners' momentum and positioning.[12][13] The most common scenario involves runners on first and second base with fewer than two outs, often during a hit-and-run or with runners taking a large lead. The batter hits a line drive to the second baseman or shortstop, who catches it for the first out; the fielder then tags the runner from second, who has advanced toward third assuming a hit, for the second out, before stepping on second base to force out the runner advancing from first. This sequence has accounted for the majority of such plays, highlighting the fielder's quick reflexes and awareness of base-running rules.[12][13] In Major League Baseball history, unassisted triple plays have been executed by players at specific positions, predominantly shortstops (eight instances) and second basemen (five instances), with first basemen completing two; no other positions have recorded one in the modern era. These plays have occurred only 15 times in MLB regular-season history, underscoring their extreme rarity compared to standard triple plays.[12][13] The most recent unassisted triple play took place on August 23, 2009, when Philadelphia Phillies second baseman Eric Bruntlett caught a line drive from New York Mets batter Jeff Francoeur, tagged runner Luis Castillo off second base, and stepped on second to retire Angel Pagan advancing from first, ending the game 9-7 in the bottom of the ninth inning with the tying runs in scoring position. No unassisted triple plays have been recorded in MLB since that date.[12][13][3]

Unfielded Triple Plays

An unfielded triple play occurs when three outs are recorded without any defensive player touching or fielding the batted ball, resulting solely from baserunner violations enforced by umpires, such as interference, passing a preceding runner, leaving a base prematurely, or abandonment of a base via appeal plays.[7] Under Official Baseball Rule 5.09(b)(8), a runner is out upon passing a preceding runner before that runner is out, with the ball remaining live and other runners potentially continuing unless further violations occur.[7] Similarly, Rule 6.01(a) declares a runner out for intentionally interfering with a fielder attempting a play, or for other actions like failing to touch a base or leaving early on a caught fly ball, which can be appealed under Rule 5.09(c).[7] The only documented instance in professional baseball took place during extended spring training on March 28, 1986, in Sarasota, Florida, when the Houston Astros' minor league affiliates turned an unfielded triple play against the Chicago White Sox' minor leaguers.[14] With runners on first and second on a hit-and-run attempt, the batter popped up to the infield, invoking the infield fly rule for the first out, but no fielder handled the ball; the runner from second slid toward third and back, the runner from first passed him while advancing, and the ball struck the runner from second, prompting umpires to call the two runners out for passing a preceding runner and interference.[14] Eyewitness Keith Bodie, then an Astros coach, described it as "the most unbelievable thing I've ever seen," noting no defensive player touched the baseball.[14] No additional unfielded triple plays have been documented in professional baseball as of 2025. These plays depend entirely on umpire judgment and rule enforcement rather than defensive action, distinguishing them from standard triple plays; as such, they are not officially recorded in Major League Baseball statistics, which require fielding for putouts.[7] No unfielded triple plays have occurred in MLB regular-season games, and documented cases remain limited to fewer than five across minor leagues and exhibitions, underscoring their extreme rarity.[14]

Notable Examples

Most Recent Triple Plays

In the 2025 Major League Baseball season, four triple plays were recorded, marking a slight uptick from the two turned in 2024.[15] These plays occurred amid evolving defensive strategies influenced by analytics, which have encouraged more aggressive positioning and quicker reactions to potential base-stealing attempts, contributing to opportunities for multiple outs on caught line drives.[16] The first triple play of the 2025 season was executed by the Colorado Rockies against the Oakland Athletics on April 5 in the top of the second inning at Coors Field. With runners Shea Langeliers on first base and Tyler Soderstrom on second base (and one out), Athletics batter Jacob Wilson hit a ground ball to third baseman Ryan McMahon. McMahon fielded the ball, stepped on third base for the force out (noting the positioning that allowed this play), threw to second baseman Kyle Farmer for the out at second, and Farmer relayed to first baseman Michael Toglia for the final out at first in a 5-4-3 sequence. This was the Rockies' first triple play since 2015.[17] The second came on April 25, when the Washington Nationals turned a controversial triple play against the New York Mets in the top of the fourth inning at Nationals Park. With one out and runners Mark Vientos on first and Brandon Nimmo on second, Mets designated hitter Jesse Winker lined a ball to first baseman Nathaniel Lowe. Umpires ruled the catch clean after review, stranding the runners who had strayed from their bases assuming a trap; Lowe threw to shortstop CJ Abrams to double off Nimmo at second, and Abrams relayed back to Lowe to double off Vientos at first in a 3-6-3 sequence. The call, which was not subject to further challenge due to replay limitations on catch/no-catch, helped secure a 5-4 walk-off victory for the Nationals and marked their first triple play at home since the franchise's inception in 2005.[18] On August 3, the Philadelphia Phillies recorded the third triple play of the season against the Detroit Tigers in the third inning at Citizens Bank Park. With runners on first and third and no outs, a line drive to pitcher Cristopher Sánchez was caught; the runners, caught off guard, were doubled off their bases as Sánchez threw to first baseman Bryce Harper to tag the bag before the runner returned, and Harper relayed to third baseman Alec Bohm for the final out in a rare 1-3-5 sequence—the fourth such play in MLB history and the first since June 24, 2024.[19] This defensive gem stifled a Tigers rally in what became a 2-0 shutout win for Philadelphia. The most recent triple play of 2025 occurred on August 12, when the Los Angeles Angels turned one against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the top of the sixth inning at Angel Stadium. With no outs and runners on first and second, Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani lined a ball to shortstop Zach Neto, who caught it and immediately threw to second baseman Luis Rengifo to double off the runner at second; Rengifo then threw to first baseman Nolan Schanuel for the out at first, with catcher Logan O'Hoppe covering home as part of the 6-4-3-2 sequence to complete the play. This was the Angels' eighth triple play in franchise history and the first in MLB after the All-Star break.[16]

Famous Historical Triple Plays

One of the most celebrated defensive plays in baseball history occurred on October 10, 1920, during Game 5 of the World Series between the Cleveland Indians and the Brooklyn Robins. With runners on first and second and no outs in the top of the fifth inning, Indians second baseman Bill Wambsganss caught a line drive from Clarence Mitchell (first out), stepped on second base to double off Pete Kilduff (runner from first, second out), and tagged Otto Miller (runner from second) as he strayed off the base (third out), completing the only unassisted triple play in World Series history.[12][20] This play helped Cleveland secure a 5-2 victory and contributed to their championship win in the best-of-nine series.[21] Another landmark unassisted triple play took place on May 31, 1927, at Tiger Stadium, where Detroit Tigers first baseman Johnny Neun preserved a 1-0 shutout against the Cleveland Indians. In the ninth inning with no outs and runners on first and second, Neun caught a line drive from Homer Summa (first out), tagged Charlie Jamieson returning to first (second out), and tagged Glenn Myatt at second (third out), ending the game and marking the second unassisted triple play in as many days after Jimmy Cooney's the previous day.[12][22][23] This feat highlighted the rarity of such plays in the dead-ball era.[24] On July 30, 1968, Washington Senators shortstop Ron Hansen executed the eighth unassisted triple play in MLB history, the first in 41 years, during a game against the Cleveland Indians at RFK Stadium. In the first inning with the bases loaded and no outs, Hansen caught a pop-up from Larry Brown, stepped on second to retire Tony Horton, and tagged Joe Azcue retreating from third, stifling an early rally in a 3-2 Senators loss.[12][25] Hansen's play, performed on a humid night, underscored the defensive brilliance required for unassisted triple plays.[26] Among other notable historical triple plays, the first unassisted triple play in modern MLB rules was turned by Cleveland Naps shortstop Neal Ball on July 19, 1909, against the Boston Red Sox, when he caught a liner, doubled up a runner at second, and tagged the runner from first. As of 2025, a total of 15 unassisted triple plays have been recorded in MLB regular-season history, emphasizing their enduring scarcity and impact.[12][24]

Unusual and Odd Triple Plays

One of the most peculiar triple plays in MLB history occurred on June 24, 2024, when the Philadelphia Phillies executed a 1-3-5 triple play against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park, marking the third such play in MLB history and the first since July 11, 1929. With runners on first and second and no outs, Tigers batter Matt Vierling popped up to pitcher Ranger Suárez (position 1), who caught it for the first out and threw to first baseman Bryce Harper (3) to double off the runner from first (second out), and Harper then relayed to third baseman Alec Bohm (5) to double off the runner from second (third out), completing the rare sequence.[27][28] This play's oddity stems from its unconventional path, bypassing second base entirely and relying on precise relays across the infield diamond. Another bizarre variant unfolded in a 5-4 triple play turned by the Texas Rangers against the Los Angeles Angels on August 16, 2018, the first of its kind since 1912. With the bases loaded and no outs, Angels batter Kaleb Cowart grounded to third baseman Jurickson Profar (5), who stepped on third for a force out on the runner from second (first out), then tagged the retreating runner from first who was caught off base (second out), before throwing to second baseman Rougned Odor (4) to force the runner advancing from third (third out). The play's strangeness arose because Cowart, the batter-runner, reached first safely, yet the inning ended with three outs recorded solely through the baserunners' positioning errors, without retiring the batter—a scenario last seen on June 3, 1912, when the Brooklyn Dodgers executed a similar 5-4 triple play against the Cincinnati Reds.[29][30][31] Runner interference has also contributed to atypical triple plays, as demonstrated by the Colorado Rockies on May 18, 2014, against the San Diego Padres. With runners on first and second and no outs, Padres batter Carlos Quentin hit a grounder to third baseman Nolan Arenado, who threw to second baseman D.J. LeMahieu in a 5-4 force play attempt at second, but the runner from first, Seth Smith, interfered with LeMahieu under Rule 6.05(m), resulting in an immediate out call (second out). The initial force at second and the subsequent throw to first baseman Justin Morneau completed the third out, highlighting how rule violations can create outs in non-standard fashion.[32] Rare configurations have produced odd triple plays involving rundowns, such as the Seattle Mariners' 3-4 triple play on July 26, 2015, against the Toronto Blue Jays. With runners on first and third and no outs, Blue Jays batter Ryan Goins grounded to first baseman Kyle Seager (3), who threw to second baseman Robinson Canó (4) to force the runner from first (Kevin Pillar) at second (first out); batter safe at first, but the runner from third (Ezequiel Carrera) was called out for passing Pillar on the basepaths (second out under passing rule). Carrera was then caught in a rundown between third and home and tagged out by catcher Mike Zunino (2), though the passing call had already ended the inning. This play's uniqueness lay in the combination of a force play, basepath passing violation, and rundown, turning a potential rally into three outs without retiring the batter on a ground ball.[33]

Historical Statistics

Total Triple Plays in MLB History

From the inception of Major League Baseball in 1876 through the 2025 season, a total of 740 triple plays have been recorded.[6] This cumulative figure underscores the rarity of the play, occurring on average slightly more than five times per season across MLB's history.[9] Triple plays have shown distinct yearly trends, with a notable peak in the early 1900s; for instance, 12 were turned in the 1922 season alone.[4] In more recent decades, the frequency has declined, averaging 3.7 per season since 2000, reflecting changes in gameplay dynamics and defensive strategies.[6] The 2025 season featured at least three triple plays.[16][34] Distribution between leagues reveals a historical edge for the National League, with approximately 390 triple plays compared to 350 in the American League through 2025.[9] This disparity stems from differences in league structures and playing styles in earlier eras. The record for most triple plays in a single season stands at 12, achieved in 1922 across both leagues.[4] For an individual team, the highest mark in the modern era (post-1900) is 3, achieved by several teams including the 2021 New York Yankees.[35][9]

Breakdown by Baserunners and Outs

Triple plays in Major League Baseball overwhelmingly occur with specific starting conditions involving baserunner positions and the number of outs, as these factors determine the feasibility of recording three outs on a single play. According to a comprehensive analysis of all 719 documented triple plays from 1876 through 2019, approximately 67% (480 instances) began with runners on first and second base and zero outs.[10] Bases-loaded situations with zero outs accounted for about 18% (130 instances), while runners on first and third with zero outs represented roughly 10% (72 instances), and runners on second and third with zero outs made up 5% (36 instances).[10] Configurations with a runner solely on third base are exceedingly rare, as they limit opportunities to record the necessary three outs without additional baserunners or specific force plays.[10] Note: This breakdown is through 2019; later data maintains similar patterns.[9] Virtually all triple plays start with zero outs, as this allows the defense to record the first, second, and third outs of the half-inning on one continuous play, thereby ending the inning.[3] Triple plays cannot occur with two outs already recorded, since the half-inning concludes after the next out, preventing the defense from achieving three putouts on the play.[12] While some historical accounts suggest rare instances potentially starting with one out, verified data confirms that 100% of documented triple plays begin with zero outs, as recording three additional outs with one already in place would exceed the three-out limit per half-inning.[10] Among play sequences, the most common for triple plays is the 5-4-3 (third baseman to second baseman to first baseman), which occurred 95 times through 2019, often involving a ground ball with runners on first and second that extends a standard double play by forcing the lead runner out at home or via a rundown.[10] The 6-4-3 sequence (shortstop to second to first) follows with 56 instances, similarly relying on ground-ball contact in double-play setups.[10] Unassisted triple plays, a subset of 15 total occurrences in MLB history, all feature runners on first and second with zero outs, typically via a line drive caught by an infielder who then doubles one runner at a base and tags the other off-base.[12] Historically, triple play frequencies and variations evolved with changes in gameplay and rules. Pre-1950, occurrences were more diverse and frequent in certain eras, such as the 1920s with 84 triple plays, often involving fly balls, tag plays, or less standardized infield alignments under earlier rules.[10] Post-2000, the plays have been dominated by extensions of ground-ball double plays (e.g., 5-4-3 or 6-4-3), reflecting modern emphasis on infield shifts, higher strikeout rates reducing baserunner opportunities, and averaged around 3-5 per season.[36]

Cultural Impact

References in Media

Broadcast highlights of triple plays have frequently captured widespread attention, particularly through major networks like ESPN and MLB Network. The 2009 unassisted triple play by Philadelphia Phillies second baseman Eric Bruntlett against the New York Mets on August 23 was extensively covered on ESPN, with analysts like Jonah Keri providing immediate post-play analysis during the broadcast, emphasizing its rarity as the 14th such play in MLB history and the first to end a game in the National League.[37] MLB Network replayed the highlight in its "Top 10" segments and game recaps, highlighting Bruntlett's catch of a line drive, tag of the runner at second, and step on second base to complete the play, which preserved a 9-7 victory.[38] In 2025, a triple play by the Los Angeles Angels on August 12 against the Los Angeles Dodgers went viral through broadcast clips and social media integrations. Shortstop Zach Neto initiated the play by catching a line drive off Shohei Ohtani's bat, doubling off the runner at second, and throwing to first for the third out, marking the eighth triple play in Angels history and the first in the MLB second half that season; MLB Network and ESPN aired extended highlights, while viral videos on platforms like YouTube and TikTok amassed millions of views within hours.[39][40] News articles have provided in-depth features on triple plays throughout the 2025 MLB season. Sporting News published a comprehensive overview on August 13, 2025, detailing memorable triple plays including the Angels' effort against Ohtani and earlier instances like the Colorado Rockies' first triple play of the year on April 5, analyzing their mechanics and historical context without baserunners or fielding errors.[6] The Society for American Baseball Research (SABR) maintains an extensive historical database of triple plays, updated on October 1, 2025, to include 800 documented instances from major leagues since 1876 plus Negro Leagues data from 1920–1948, enabling researchers and journalists to reference sortable details like play sequences and fielders.[9][41] Documentaries and retrospective segments have explored the rarity of unassisted triple plays within MLB Films productions. MLB Films has featured dedicated segments on unassisted triple plays in its historical retrospectives, such as compilations of the 15 occurrences since 1900, including Bruntlett's 2009 play and earlier examples, often narrated to underscore their defensive brilliance and infrequency in modern baseball.[38] These segments appear in broader World Series highlight reels and "This Day in Baseball" series, drawing from archival footage to illustrate plays like the one that ended the 2009 Phillies-Mets game.[42] The press impact of triple plays has been profound in high-stakes scenarios, such as the 1920 World Series. Bill Wambsganss's unassisted triple play for the Cleveland Indians in Game 5 against the Brooklyn Robins on October 10 made front-page headlines in major newspapers like The New York Times, which later reflected on it as a "thrill" in a 1921 retrospective, noting how the second baseman's catch, tag, and step secured an 8-1 victory and contributed to Cleveland's championship.[43][44]

References in Popular Culture

In the 1968 film adaptation of Neil Simon's The Odd Couple, directed by Gene Saks, a fictional triple play serves as a pivotal comedic moment during a depicted New York Mets game at Shea Stadium. The scene, filmed on location before a real Mets-Pirates matchup on June 27, 1967, shows Pittsburgh Pirates pinch hitter Bill Mazeroski grounding into a 5-4-3 triple play (third baseman to second baseman to first baseman) with the bases loaded and two outs in the ninth inning, securing a 1-0 Mets victory. This staged play, executed in two takes by Mets infielders Ed Charles, Ken Boswell, and Ed Kranepool, highlights the dramatic rarity of the feat while underscoring the characters' distracted banter—protagonist Oscar Madison (Walter Matthau) misses the action due to a phone call from Felix Ungar (Jack Lemmon).[45] The term "triple play" has permeated literature through baseball-focused compilations, notably the Society for American Baseball Research (SABR) Triple Plays Database, an extensive anthology-like resource cataloging every major league triple play since 1876. This collection, maintained by SABR researchers, documents 800 instances with detailed play-by-play accounts, emphasizing their strategic and historical significance in narratives of defensive excellence. Such works inspire fictional explorations of the play's tension, portraying it as a turning point in tales of underdog triumphs and improbable heroics.[9] Beyond baseball, "triple play" has evolved into a popular idiom denoting the simultaneous achievement of three successes or elements, often in business and creative contexts. For instance, McKinsey & Company describes a "growth triple play" as the synergistic integration of creativity, analytics, and purpose, enabling companies to outperform peers by 2.3 times in revenue growth during stable periods and 2.7 times amid disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic. This metaphorical usage underscores the term's cultural adaptability, evoking efficiency and rarity akin to its sporting origins.[46] In video games, the MLB The Show series, developed by San Diego Studio, simulates triple plays with realistic mechanics and rarity-based animations, particularly highlighting unassisted variants as exceptional events. Players can execute these through precise fielding inputs, such as a second baseman catching a line drive and doubling off runners at second and first, mirroring real-life rarities like Johnny Neun's 1927 play; the game's physics engine rewards timing and positioning, making such moments memorable highlights in franchise modes.[47]

References

  1. Triple Play (TP) | Glossary - MLB.com
  2. https://www.baseball-almanac.com/dictionary-term.php?term=triple%20play
  3. Triple play - BR Bullpen - Baseball-Reference.com
  4. MLB Triple Plays | Baseball Almanac
  5. The Numbers Behind Baseball's Triple Play - Stacker
  6. [PDF] OFFICIAL BASEBALL RULES
  7. What is a triple play in baseball? Memorable plays and everything to ...
  8. SABR Triple Plays Database
  9. None
  10. Twins turn their second triple play of 2019 - MLB.com
  11. A look back at every unassisted triple play - MLB.com
  12. Unassisted Triple Plays | Baseball Almanac
  13. That time a team turned a triple play without touching the ball
  14. Angels turn triple play against Dodgers, Shohei Ohtani - MLB.com
  15. Rockies turn triple play against Athletics - MLB.com
  16. Nats turn their 1st triple play at Nationals Park against Mets - MLB.com
  17. Phillies turn rare 1-3-5 triple play against Tigers, 1st since 1929
  18. 1920 World Series - BR Bullpen - Baseball-Reference.com
  19. 1920 World Series recap - MLB.com
  20. May 31 - BR Bullpen - Baseball-Reference.com
  21. Triple play - BR Bullpen - Baseball-Reference.com
  22. July 30 - BR Bullpen - Baseball-Reference.com
  23. July 30, 1968: Washington Senators shortstop Ron Hansen makes ...
  24. Phillies turn rare 1-3-5 triple play, MLB's first since 1929 - ESPN
  25. Phillies turn first 1-3-5 triple play in 95 years - The Athletic
  26. This Rangers triple play was so weird that nobody even knew if it ...
  27. Jurickson Profar, Rangers turn triple play - MLB.com
  28. Texas Rangers turn rare triple play not seen since 1912 - USA Today
  29. Rockies turn a triple play thanks to interference at second - YouTube
  30. Mariners turn wacky triple play vs. Toronto - MLB.com
  31. Every Triple Play from the 2025 Season : r/baseball - Reddit
  32. Fun with Triple Plays of the Past, Present and Future
  33. Analyzing A Rare, Unassisted Triple Play - NPR
  34. Bruntlett's unassisted triple play ends game | 08/23/2009 - MLB.com
  35. Ohtani lines into Angels triple play | 08/12/2025 - MLB.com
  36. TRIPLE PLAY! Angels Get Ohtani and the Dodgers - YouTube
  37. SABR adds Negro Leagues plays to Triple Plays Database - SABR.org
  38. https://www.sabr.org/gamesproj/game/august-23-2009-eric-bruntletts-unassisted-triple-play-ends-strange-phillies-mets-game/
  39. THRILLS OF 1920 SERIES.; Wambsganss's Unassisted Triple Play ...
  40. A game of World Series firsts: unassisted triple play and grand slam
  41. Mazeroski Hits Into Triple Play In 'Odd Couple' Filming at Shea
  42. The growth triple play: Creativity, analytics, and purpose - McKinsey
  43. UNASSISTED TRIPLE PLAY!!! | MLB The Show 16 - YouTube
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