Cleveland Guardians pitcher Gavin Williams came within a bunt of completing a perfect game on Sunday, but the attempt sparked tension with the Arizona Diamondbacks and raised questions about baseball’s unwritten rules.
The near-perfect game occurred during Sunday's game between the Guardians and the Diamondbacks. Williams joined an exclusive group in MLB history with his performance. However, the potential for perfection was almost broken up when a Diamondbacks player attempted a bunt late in the game.
The bunt attempt violated what many consider to be an unwritten rule of baseball – not attempting to break up a perfect game or no-hitter with aggressive baserunning or bunting late in the contest. This perceived breach of etiquette led to both benches emptying, though no physical altercation occurred.
The incident overshadowed Williams’ achievement, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding unwritten rules and their place in modern baseball. While some view these rules as respecting the game's traditions, others see them as outdated and unnecessary restrictions on player freedom.
We don't rate truth. We strip the spin and show you which perspectives covered the story. You decide.
Read the original coverage
💬 Comments
📜 Comment Policy