Best Baseball Playoff Games Ever
The Major League Baseball (MLB) playoffs have produced some of the most thrilling moments in sports history. From dramatic comebacks to legendary performances, the postseason showcases the best of baseball. This article highlights some of the best playoff games ever played, illustrating the excitement and intensity that defines October baseball.
Criteria for Selection
The games selected for this list are based on several factors, including:
- Impact on the series
- Memorable performances
- Historical significance
- Fan engagement and excitement
Top Baseball Playoff Games
Year | Game | Teams | Highlights |
---|---|---|---|
2016 | Game 7, World Series | Cleveland Indians vs. Chicago Cubs | Extra innings thriller; Cubs win their first championship in 108 years. |
1991 | Game 7, World Series | Atlanta Braves vs. Minnesota Twins | Classic pitching duel; Twins win 1-0 on a sacrifice fly. |
2004 | Game 4, ALCS | Boston Red Sox vs. New York Yankees | Red Sox rally from down 0-3 in the series; Dave Roberts steals second base. |
1988 | Game 1, World Series | Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Oakland Athletics | Kirk Gibson's walk-off home run off Dennis Eckersley. |
1993 | Game 6, World Series | Toronto Blue Jays vs. Philadelphia Phillies | Joe Carter's walk-off home run to win the series. |
2011 | Game 6, World Series | St. Louis Cardinals vs. Texas Rangers | Cardinals come back twice; David Freese's game-tying triple and walk-off home run. |
1975 | Game 6, World Series | Cincinnati Reds vs. Boston Red Sox | Famous for Carlton Fisk's iconic home run in the 12th inning. |
2001 | Game 7, ALCS | New York Yankees vs. Seattle Mariners | Yankees win in dramatic fashion, extending their postseason dominance. |
Detailed Game Summaries
2016 World Series Game 7: Cubs vs. Indians
On November 2, 2016, the Chicago Cubs faced the Cleveland Indians in a decisive Game 7 of the World Series. The game was a nail-biter that featured a rain delay and extra innings. The Cubs, who had not won a championship in 108 years, finally broke the curse by winning 8-7 after a thrilling comeback.
1991 World Series Game 7: Braves vs. Twins
Considered one of the greatest games in World Series history, Game 7 of the 1991 World Series featured a classic pitching duel between John Smoltz and Jack Morris. The game was scoreless until the 10th inning, where Morris's performance led the Twins to a 1-0 victory, clinching the championship.
2004 ALCS Game 4: Red Sox vs. Yankees
In a game that would change the course of baseball history, the Boston Red Sox faced the New York Yankees in Game 4 of the ALCS. The Red Sox were down 0-3 in the series but mounted a historic comeback, highlighted by Dave Roberts's stolen base and a late-inning rally that sent the game to extra innings. The Red Sox would go on to win the series and eventually the World Series, breaking the "Curse of the Bambino."
1988 World Series Game 1: Dodgers vs. Athletics
Game 1 of the 1988 World Series is remembered for Kirk Gibson's dramatic walk-off home run. Despite being injured and not expected to play, Gibson pinch-hit in the bottom of the ninth and hit a two-run homer off Dennis Eckersley, leading the Dodgers to an unforgettable victory.
1993 World Series Game 6: Blue Jays vs. Phillies
Joe Carter's walk-off home run in Game 6 of the 1993 World Series is one of the most iconic moments in baseball history. The Toronto Blue Jays defeated the Philadelphia Phillies 8-6, with Carter's homer sealing the championship for Toronto.
2011 World Series Game 6: Cardinals vs. Rangers
Game 6 of the 2011 World Series is often referred to as one of the greatest games ever played. The St. Louis Cardinals faced the Texas Rangers and found themselves down to their last strike multiple times. David Freese's heroics, including a game-tying triple and a walk-off home run, led the Cardinals to victory and ultimately the championship.
1975 World Series Game 6: Reds vs. Red Sox
Game 6 of the 1975 World Series featured one of the most dramatic moments in baseball history when Carlton Fisk hit a walk-off home run in the 12th inning. The Cincinnati Reds won the game 7-6, and the series was a classic showdown between two powerhouse teams.
2001 ALCS Game 7: Yankees vs. Mariners
In a tense Game 7 of the ALCS, the New York Yankees faced the Seattle Mariners. The Yankees' experience and resilience shone through, as they secured a 12-3 victory, further solidifying their legacy as one of the greatest postseason teams in history.
Conclusion
The best baseball playoff games ever played highlight the drama, skill, and unpredictability that make the postseason so captivating. Each game not only impacted the teams involved but also left a lasting impression on fans and the sport itself. Whether through unforgettable plays, legendary performances, or historical significance, these games embody the spirit of baseball and its rich playoff history.