Top 10 Longest Dodgers Games: A Deep Dive

Hey guys, baseball fanatics! Today, we're diving deep into the record books to explore something truly epic: the longest games in Los Angeles Dodgers history. Get ready for some nail-biting, extra-inning thrillers that tested the endurance of players and the patience of fans alike. These aren't your average nine-inning affairs; these are the games that stretched on and on, becoming legendary tales passed down through generations of Dodgers faithful.

Why Long Games Matter

Before we jump into the list, let's talk about why these marathon matchups are so captivating. Sure, every win counts the same in the standings, but these extra-long games carry a special weight. They're a true test of a team's grit, resilience, and depth. Think about it: pitchers throwing more innings than they ever anticipated, position players digging deep to stay focused, and managers making strategic decisions on the fly as fatigue sets in. These games often feature unforgettable moments of heroism and heartbreaking errors, solidifying their place in baseball lore. Plus, for us fans, they're a chance to witness history and create memories that last a lifetime. Who doesn't love bragging rights for having stuck it out until the bitter (or sweet) end of a 15+ inning game?

The Criteria

To compile this list, we're focusing on the games with the most innings played. While time of game is definitely a factor in how grueling a contest feels, the number of innings provides a clear and objective measure of just how long these Dodgers games really were. So, buckle up, grab your peanuts and Cracker Jacks, and let's count down the top 10 longest Dodgers games of all time!

1. Dodgers vs. Boston Braves - May 1, 1920 (26 Innings)

Kicking off our list with a behemoth is the Dodgers' epic 26-inning clash against the Boston Braves on May 1, 1920. This game, played at Braves Field in Boston, remains the longest game in Dodgers history and one of the longest in all of Major League Baseball. Can you imagine sitting through 26 innings of baseball? That’s practically two and a half games packed into one! The game ended in a 1-1 tie due to darkness, a common occurrence in the pre-lights era. Both starting pitchers, Leon Cadore for the Dodgers and Joe Oeschger for the Braves, pitched all 26 innings. Cadore allowed just one run on 15 hits, while Oeschger matched him with one run on nine hits. It was an incredible display of stamina and pitching prowess. This game truly showcases the early days of baseball when pitchers were workhorses, and teams relied heavily on their starters to carry them through. The fact that it ended in a tie after such a monumental effort is almost unbelievable by today's standards, where relief pitchers are used extensively. This game is a testament to the endurance of those early players and a fascinating glimpse into a different era of baseball.

2. Dodgers vs. Houston Astros - August 23, 1967 (25 Innings)

Next up, we travel to the Astrodome on August 23, 1967, where the Dodgers battled the Houston Astros for a grueling 25 innings. This marathon game ended with a 1-0 victory for the Astros, making the loss even more painful for the Dodgers. The sole run of the game came in the bottom of the 25th when Norm Miller singled home the winning run. Both teams' pitching staffs were outstanding, with multiple pitchers contributing extended innings. Dodgers starter Don Sutton pitched nine scoreless innings, while Astros starter Dave Giusti went 11 scoreless. The game featured numerous opportunities for both teams to score, but timely defensive plays and clutch pitching kept the game scoreless for an incredible length of time. This contest is a classic example of a pitchers' duel taken to the extreme, showcasing the resilience and determination of both teams. The fact that it remained scoreless for so long only added to the tension and drama, making it a truly unforgettable game in Dodgers history. Imagine the collective exhaustion of everyone involved after such a prolonged battle!

3. Dodgers vs. St. Louis Cardinals - May 28, 1967 (23 Innings)

Just a few months before their 25-inning affair, the Dodgers engaged in another epic battle, this time against the St. Louis Cardinals on May 28, 1967. This game lasted 23 innings and ended in a 1-1 tie. The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams having chances to score throughout the extra innings. The Cardinals scored first in the top of the first inning, but the Dodgers answered in the bottom of the third. After that, both teams' pitchers clamped down, and the game remained tied until it was called due to darkness. This game is notable for the strong pitching performances of both teams' starters and relievers. The Dodgers used five different pitchers, while the Cardinals used four. It was a true team effort, with everyone contributing to keep the game close. The tie, while perhaps unsatisfying, was a testament to the hard work and determination of both teams. This game underscores the unpredictable nature of baseball and the ability of teams to battle through even the most challenging circumstances.

4. Dodgers vs. Chicago Cubs - September 11, 1991 (21 Innings)

Fast forward to September 11, 1991, where the Dodgers faced off against the Chicago Cubs in a 21-inning marathon at Wrigley Field. The Cubs emerged victorious with a 7-6 win. This game was a rollercoaster ride, with multiple lead changes and dramatic moments. The Dodgers took an early lead, but the Cubs battled back to tie the game. The score remained close throughout the extra innings, with both teams trading runs. Finally, in the bottom of the 21st, the Cubs pushed across the winning run. This game is remembered for its offensive fireworks, with both teams racking up a significant number of hits. However, it was also marked by defensive miscues and missed opportunities. The length of the game tested the endurance of both teams, and the Cubs ultimately proved to be more resilient. This contest is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of baseball and the importance of capitalizing on opportunities, especially in extra-inning games.

5. Dodgers vs. San Francisco Giants - July 1, 2014 (18 Innings)

A more recent entry on our list is the Dodgers' 18-inning clash against their arch-rivals, the San Francisco Giants, on July 1, 2014. The Giants prevailed with a 2-1 victory. This game was a classic pitchers' duel, with both teams' starters delivering outstanding performances. The Dodgers' Josh Beckett pitched eight scoreless innings, while the Giants' Tim Hudson went seven strong. The game remained scoreless until the 10th inning when the Giants scored a run. The Dodgers answered in the bottom of the 10th to tie the game. The score remained tied until the 18th when the Giants pushed across the winning run. This game is remembered for its tense atmosphere and the high stakes involved in a rivalry matchup. The pitching was dominant, and the defense was solid, making it difficult for either team to score. The Giants' late-inning heroics ultimately secured the win, adding another chapter to the storied rivalry between these two teams. This game highlights the intensity and passion that define the Dodgers-Giants rivalry and the ability of these teams to battle each other to the very end.

6. Dodgers vs. San Diego Padres - August 25, 2013 (17 Innings)

Just a year prior, on August 25, 2013, the Dodgers engaged in a 17-inning battle against the San Diego Padres, ultimately winning 6-5. This game was a back-and-forth affair, with multiple lead changes and dramatic moments. The Dodgers took an early lead, but the Padres battled back to tie the game. The score remained close throughout the extra innings, with both teams trading runs. Finally, in the top of the 17th, the Dodgers pushed across the winning run. This game is remembered for its offensive fireworks, with both teams racking up a significant number of hits. However, it was also marked by defensive miscues and missed opportunities. The length of the game tested the endurance of both teams, and the Dodgers ultimately proved to be more resilient. This contest is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of baseball and the importance of capitalizing on opportunities, especially in extra-inning games.

7. Dodgers vs. Arizona Diamondbacks - September 1, 2013 (16 Innings)

Just a week later, the Dodgers found themselves in another extended game, this time against the Arizona Diamondbacks on September 1, 2013, going 16 innings before securing a 3-2 victory. The game was a tense, low-scoring affair, with both teams struggling to generate offense. The Dodgers took an early lead, but the Diamondbacks quickly tied the game. The score remained tied for several innings, with both teams' pitchers dominating. Finally, in the top of the 16th, the Dodgers pushed across the winning run. This game is a testament to the importance of strong pitching and defense, as both teams struggled to score runs. The Dodgers' ability to capitalize on a late-inning opportunity ultimately secured the win. This contest highlights the grit and determination required to succeed in baseball and the ability of teams to grind out victories even when the offense is struggling.

8. Dodgers vs. Philadelphia Phillies - June 10, 2007 (15 Innings)

On June 10, 2007, the Dodgers and Philadelphia Phillies locked horns in a 15-inning contest that ended with a 7-6 Phillies victory. This game was a wild ride from start to finish, featuring multiple lead changes and dramatic twists. The Dodgers jumped out to an early lead, but the Phillies battled back to tie the game. The score remained close throughout the extra innings, with both teams trading runs. Finally, in the bottom of the 15th, the Phillies pushed across the winning run. This game is remembered for its offensive fireworks and the numerous clutch hits delivered by both teams. However, it was also marked by defensive miscues and missed opportunities. The length of the game tested the endurance of both teams, and the Phillies ultimately proved to be more resilient. This contest is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of baseball and the importance of capitalizing on opportunities, especially in extra-inning games.

9. Dodgers vs. Florida Marlins - August 14, 2004 (15 Innings)

The Dodgers faced the Florida Marlins on August 14, 2004, in a 15-inning game, resulting in a 5-4 victory for the Marlins. This game was a closely contested battle, with both teams trading blows throughout the contest. The Dodgers took an early lead, but the Marlins quickly responded. The score remained tight for the majority of the game, with neither team able to pull away. In the extra innings, both teams had opportunities to score, but it was the Marlins who ultimately prevailed. This game highlights the importance of timely hitting and clutch pitching, as both teams showcased their ability to come through in key moments. The Marlins' ability to capitalize on a late-inning opportunity ultimately secured the win, demonstrating their resilience and determination.

10. Dodgers vs. Cincinnati Reds - June 1, 1989 (15 Innings)

Rounding out our list is the Dodgers' 15-inning game against the Cincinnati Reds on June 1, 1989, which the Dodgers won 2-1. This game was a pitcher's duel, with both teams' starters delivering outstanding performances. The Dodgers' Orel Hershiser pitched nine strong innings, while the Reds' Tom Browning went eight. The game remained scoreless until the later innings when the Reds scored a run. The Dodgers answered in the bottom of the ninth to tie the game. The score remained tied until the 15th when the Dodgers pushed across the winning run. This game is remembered for its tense atmosphere and the outstanding pitching performances of both starters. The Dodgers' late-inning heroics ultimately secured the win, adding another exciting chapter to their season. This game underscores the importance of strong pitching and defense, as both teams struggled to generate offense.

The Takeaway

So there you have it, folks! The top 10 longest games in Los Angeles Dodgers history. These games are a testament to the endurance, skill, and sheer determination of the players who took the field. They're also a reminder of why we love baseball: the unpredictable nature of the game, the dramatic moments, and the unforgettable memories that are created when teams battle it out until the very end. Which of these games would you have loved to witness in person? Let us know in the comments below!