The Unforgettable Grand Slam: Golfing Giants in the 9th Inning

Since 1900, several memorable moments in baseball history involve players hitting two-out game-winning grand slam home runs in the bottom of the 9th inning when their teams were down by three runs. These plays are celebrated for their dramatic and rare nature. Let's explore some of these unforgettable instances and the impact they had on baseball lore.

Notable Grand Slams in the 9th Inning

One of the most memorable instances occurred on September 24, 1991, in a game between the Atlanta Braves and the Chicago Cubs. Terry Pendleton, playing for the Braves, delivered a game-winning grand slam in the bottom of the 9th inning, leading to a 7-5 victory. This play is still celebrated today, providing a thrilling example of how games can be turned around in under five pitches. The rarity of such plays underscores their significance in baseball history.

Terry Pendleton's Grand Slam (September 24, 1991): The Atlanta Braves were trailing 5-3 with two outs in the bottom of the ninth when Pendleton hit a grand slam. This play not only changed the outcome of the game but also became a significant moment in baseball memory.

Other Major League Grand Slams in the 9th Inning

Throughout the history of Major League Baseball, there have been at least 15 instances of two-out game-winning grand slams in the 9th inning when teams were down by three runs. While these plays are rare, they have left a lasting impact on the sport. Here are a few more examples that stand out:

Ceiling Trammell's Walk-Off Grand Slam

On a date near and dear to many baseball fans (exact date not specified), Detroit Tigers' player Billy Trammell hit a walk-off home run against the New York Yankees. The game was a nail-biter, with Detroit trailing 6-1 in the 9th inning. Trammell connected with a 3-2 fastball from Yankees closer Dave Righetti, sending the ball deep into the upper deck in left field. This play was particularly poignant as it was a critical moment in the team's playoff season. It's a reminder of the power and drama that baseball can bring.

David Bote's Walk-Off Grand Slam (August 12, 2017)

David Bote, a position player for the Chicago Cubs, achieved this feat on August 12, 2017, against the Washington Nationals. This was one of the most recent instances of such a play. Bote's grand slam came when his team was down 3-0, adding to the drama of the moment. Similar to Pendleton, Bote's grand slam came during a crucial 9th inning, affecting the result of the game. It's a testament to the unpredictability of baseball and the emotional rollercoaster fans enjoy.

Rajai Davis' Walk-Off Grand Slam (June 30, 2014)

On June 30, 2014, at Comerica Park, Rajai Davis hit a remarkable walk-off grand slam for the Detroit Tigers. This play not only secured the victory but also captured the attention of baseball fans everywhere. The drama and excitement of this moment were palpable as Davis struck the ball with sheer force, sending it into the upper deck. This game-winning play is an example of how rare and unforgettable these moments are in baseball.

Walk-Off Grand Slams in Major League History

Walk-off grand slams have added a unique level of drama and emotion to the sport of baseball. These plays have occurred more than 180 times in Major League history, with 28 of them happening when the team was down by three runs. Despite their rarity, these plays continue to be celebrated and remembered. One of the most recent players to achieve this was Ryan Roberts of the Arizona Diamondbacks on September 27, 2011. Since his historic play, no other player has managed to achieve this feat twice in their career.

Fun Facts: There have been more than 180 walk-off grand slams in Major League history. 28 of these grand slams occurred when the team was down by three runs. No player has ever hit two walk-off grand slams in their career.

These grand slams continue to amaze and delight baseball fans, proving that the sport is full of unexpected moments and thrilling plays. Whether you witnessed these plays in person or watched from the comfort of your home, their impact on baseball history remains undeniable.