Baseball is a game of resilience and determination. Some of the greatest moments in MLB history come from incredible comebacks. Let’s look at some of the most notable comeback stories that have inspired fans and players alike.
The 2004 Boston Red Sox: Ending the Curse
The Comeback
The 2004 Boston Red Sox faced the New York Yankees in the American League Championship Series (ALCS). Down 3-0 in the series, their chances looked bleak. No team had ever come back from such a deficit. However, the Red Sox refused to give up.
They were determined to break the “Curse of the Bambino,” a superstition stemming from their sale of Babe Ruth to the Yankees in 1919, which many fans believed had cursed the team.
Key Moments
Game 4: The Turning Point
In Game 4, the Red Sox were down 4-3 in the ninth inning. With pinch-runner Dave Roberts on first base, he made a crucial steal of second base. Bill Mueller then singled, driving Roberts home and tying the game. This dramatic play shifted the momentum. In the 12th inning, David Ortiz hit a walk-off home run, giving the Red Sox their first win of the series.
Game 5: Ortiz Delivers Again
Game 5 saw another nail-biting finish. Ortiz once again played the hero, hitting a walk-off single in the 14th inning after another tied game. The Red Sox’s resilience was on full display, as they battled through long, exhausting games to keep their hopes alive.
Game 6: Schilling’s Gutsy Performance
In Game 6, Curt Schilling pitched with an injured ankle, famously known as the “bloody sock” game. His gutsy performance, where he allowed only one run over seven innings, was pivotal. The Red Sox won 4-2, forcing a decisive Game 7.
Game 7: Completing the Comeback
In Game 7, the Red Sox dominated the Yankees with a 10-3 victory. Johnny Damon hit two home runs, including a grand slam, and Derek Lowe pitched a strong game. The Red Sox completed the historic comeback, becoming the first team in MLB history to win a series after trailing 3-0.
The Impact
The Red Sox then swept the St. Louis Cardinals in the World Series, winning their first championship in 86 years. This incredible comeback ended the “Curse of the Bambino” and brought immense joy to generations of Red Sox fans. The 2004 team became legends in Boston, symbolizing hope and perseverance. Their victory redefined the franchise’s history and inspired countless fans and future players.
The 2011 St. Louis Cardinals: Wild Card to World Champions
The Comeback
In September 2011, the St. Louis Cardinals trailed the Atlanta Braves by 10.5 games in the Wild Card race. Against the odds, the Cardinals went on a remarkable run, clinching the Wild Card spot on the final day of the season.
Key Moments
September Surge
The Cardinals’ September surge was crucial. They won 23 of their last 31 games, capitalizing on the Braves’ collapse. This incredible run showcased their determination and resilience, setting the stage for their postseason success.
World Series: Down to Their Last Strike
In the World Series against the Texas Rangers, the Cardinals found themselves down 3-2 in the series. In Game 6, they were twice down to their final strike but managed to rally both times. David Freese’s triple in the 9th inning tied the game, and his walk-off home run in the 11th inning forced a Game 7.
Game 7: Sealing the Victory
In Game 7, the Cardinals carried their momentum forward, winning 6-2. Chris Carpenter pitched six solid innings, and Freese continued his heroics with a game-tying double. The Cardinals secured their 11th World Series title, completing one of the most improbable comebacks in baseball history.
The Impact
This comeback highlighted the Cardinals’ never-say-die attitude. It remains one of the most thrilling and improbable comebacks in MLB history. The 2011 team is celebrated for its resilience and ability to perform under pressure, inspiring fans and players alike.
The 1986 New York Mets: Miracle Mets
The Comeback
The New York Mets’ 1986 season is legendary. In the World Series against the Boston Red Sox, the Mets trailed 3-2 in the series. Game 6 seemed lost as they were down to their final out.
Key Moments
Game 6: The Miracle
In Game 6, the Mets were trailing 5-3 in the 10th inning. With two outs and nobody on base, the Mets staged an incredible rally. Hits by Gary Carter, Kevin Mitchell, and Ray Knight set the stage. Mookie Wilson’s ground ball went through Bill Buckner’s legs, allowing the winning run to score. This miraculous comeback forced a Game 7.
Game 7: Finishing Strong
In Game 7, the Mets fell behind early but fought back to win 8-5. The Mets’ resilience and ability to capitalize on their opportunities were key to their success. They clinched the championship, cementing their place in baseball history.
The Impact
The Mets’ victory in 1986 is remembered as one of the greatest comebacks. It showcased their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. The team’s spirit and determination inspired fans and became a defining moment in Mets’ history.
The 2016 Chicago Cubs: Breaking the Curse
The Comeback
The Chicago Cubs faced the Cleveland Indians in the 2016 World Series. Down 3-1 in the series, the Cubs looked set to continue their 108-year championship drought.
Key Moments
Game 5: Staying Alive
Facing elimination, the Cubs won Game 5 at Wrigley Field, keeping their hopes alive. This victory reignited their confidence and set the stage for an epic comeback.
Game 6: Domination
In Game 6, the Cubs dominated the Indians with a 9-3 win. Addison Russell hit a grand slam, and Jake Arrieta pitched a strong game. The series was tied, leading to a decisive Game 7.
Game 7: A Historic Finish
Game 7 was a nail-biter, going into extra innings after a rain delay. Key plays by Kris Bryant, a clutch RBI by Ben Zobrist, and Miguel Montero’s hit led the Cubs to an 8-7 victory. This win ended the longest championship drought in professional sports history.
The Impact
This comeback ended the longest championship drought in professional sports history. The Cubs’ win was a joyous moment for their loyal fans and a testament to perseverance. The 2016 team will always be remembered for their historic achievement and the joy they brought to the city of Chicago.
The 1995 Seattle Mariners: Saving Baseball in Seattle
The Comeback
In 1995, the Seattle Mariners were 13 games behind the division-leading California Angels in August. They needed a miracle to make the playoffs.
Key Moments
September Surge
Led by Ken Griffey Jr. and Randy Johnson, the Mariners went on an incredible run, winning 25 of their final 36 games. This surge helped them force a one-game playoff against the Angels for the division title.
ALDS: The Magic Continues
In the ALDS, the Mariners faced the New York Yankees. Down 2-0 in the series, the Mariners won three straight games. Game 5 was particularly dramatic, with Griffey scoring the winning run on Edgar Martinez’s double, known as “The Double.” This play is one of the most iconic moments in Mariners history.
The Impact
This comeback saved baseball in Seattle, leading to the construction of Safeco Field (now T-Mobile Park). It also solidified Ken Griffey Jr.’s legacy as a baseball icon. The Mariners’ 1995 season remains a defining moment for the franchise and its fans.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Resilience
These comebacks are more than just victories; they are stories of determination, resilience, and the unyielding spirit of baseball. They inspire players and fans, reminding us that no matter the odds, a comeback is always possible. Baseball’s history is rich with these moments, and they continue to define the sport’s enduring appeal.
