Decline in Complete Games in Major League Baseball (MLB)

The number of complete games in Major League Baseball (MLB) has seen a significant decline in recent decades. A complete game, a term familiar to baseball enthusiasts, refers to a game in which a pitcher throws all nine innings, regardless of the outcome. In 2024, through July 9, only 17 complete games have been recorded out of 2722 games. This represents a stark contrast to earlier eras, where such games were quite common.

Understanding Complete Games

A complete game is not just a statistical curiosity; it has significant implications for the pitcher and the team. Historically, starting pitchers often pitched complete games, showcasing their endurance and skill level. The practice was favored because it allowed teams to maintain a higher level of consistency and control over their games. In the modern era, however, the likelihood of a pitcher achieving a complete game is far lower, with few hurlers able to say they’ve pitched a complete game in their career.

Legacy of Complete Games

Before the modern era, complete games were more common. Pitchers often pitched multiple games without the benefit of today's relief pitching and bullpens. Over the years, the use of analytics and coaching strategies has led to a decrease in the number of complete games. Today, teams are more likely to employ a bullpen approach, utilizing multiple pitchers to cover innings and manage pitching counts.

Modern Era vs. Past

Over the past few decades, the number of complete games has seen a gradual decline. In the past, pitchers could make 20 or more complete games in a season, which was not uncommon. As of the 2024 MLB season, through July 9, only 17 complete games have been thrown. This decline is attributed to several factors:

Increased Reliance on Bullpens: Teams now utilize bullpens more frequently to manage their pitching staff and ensure that pitchers are not taxed. Even top-tier starters often do not complete games due to the managed pitch count and the availability of relief pitchers. Coaching and Strategy: Coaches and pitching coaches are more savvy about pitcher usage, recognizing the need to protect valuable starters and prevent overuse. Health and Analytics: Advanced analytics and a deeper understanding of pitching mechanics and player health have led to more cautious approaches to pitching.

Impact of Strike Years and Delayed Seasons

It’s worth noting that strike years and delayed seasons, such as 1994 and 2020, can also impact the number of complete games. These events disrupt the regular season and sometimes lead to shortened seasons, which can affect the number of complete games. For instance, when players are on the roster but can’t play due to strikes, it can lead to fewer games being played and fewer opportunities for complete games.

For the 1994 MLB season, which was shortened by a strike and the subsequent 1995 season, the number of complete games was significantly lower. In the 2020 season, after the pandemic caused several games to be postponed, the number of complete games was also reduced.

Conclusion

The decline in complete games in MLB is a reflection of a changing approach to player management and strategic play. Teams today are more cautious with their pitching staff, utilizing relief pitchers and strategic pitch counts more than in previous eras. This shift doesn't merely affect the individual game; it also influences player careers and the overall landscape of baseball.

As we look to the future, the trend towards reduced complete games is likely to continue. This shift is driven by a combination of factors, including the increasing sophistication of coaching and player management, the advent of advanced analytics, and the need to protect pitchers in an era of higher playing intensities. While complete games may not be as common, they still hold a special place in baseball lore and the sport’s history.