Throwing a perfect game is the hardest thing to do at any level of baseball – let alone in the MLB. It requires a pitcher to be fully engaged and on the mound for nine innings to successfully accomplish what has only been done 23 times.
Former Arkansas pitcher Drew Smyly was just six outs away from completing the 24th perfect game in major league history when it all went horribly wrong.
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On the second pitch of the eighth inning, Dodgers outfielder David Peralta hit a dribbler down the third-base line. Smyly trotted to scoop up the ball and throw it to first for a routine out. However, just as Smyly was about to grab the ball, Smyly’s catcher, Yan Gomes, ran right into his back. Both players fell to the Wrigley Field grass.
Peralta reached first with ease and was credited with a hit – ending Smyly’s chance at history.
The one positive in this heartbreaking development was that the Cubs picked up an impressive 13-0 win over the Dodgers. The former All-SEC ace did make some history, though, becoming the first Cubs pitcher to be perfect through seven innings since 1993.
What a heartbreaking way to end a perfect game bid.
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Story originally appeared on Razorbacks Wire