On this day in 1998 David Wells pitched the 2nd Perfect Game ever for the Yankees. Let’s all give David a Shout Out…
May 17, 1998 — A historic day for New York Yankees fans and Major League Baseball alike, as David Wells etched his name into the annals of baseball history by pitching the second perfect game ever for the Yankees. Wells’ flawless performance on the mound that day not only captivated the crowd at Yankee Stadium but also secured his legacy as one of the greatest pitchers to don the pinstripes.
A Masterpiece on the Mound
David Wells, known for his towering presence and dominant pitching style, delivered a game for the ages on May 17, 1998, against the Minnesota Twins. Over the course of nine innings, Wells achieved the rarest feat in baseball — retiring every single batter he faced without allowing a single base runner. 27 batters, 27 outs, and a perfect game.
This feat is incredibly rare in the history of Major League Baseball. Prior to Wells’ achievement, only 13 perfect games had been pitched in the modern era, and the Yankees themselves had only one prior perfect game, thrown by Don Larsen during the 1956 World Series, which remains one of the most iconic moments in baseball history.
The Significance of the Perfect Game
Pitching a perfect game is often described as the ultimate display of pitching precision, stamina, and mental toughness. No hits, no walks, no errors, and no batters reaching base by any means — it requires a pitcher to be flawless from start to finish. Wells’ performance was not just a personal triumph but a testament to his skill, focus, and determination.
In addition to the perfect game itself, Wells struck out 11 batters and allowed only four balls in play that were handled cleanly by the Yankees’ defense. His fastball was sharp, and his breaking balls kept the Twins’ hitters off balance throughout the game.
The Build-Up and the Moment
Leading up to this historic game, Wells was already an established and respected pitcher. Known for his confidence both on and off the mound, he had the kind of presence that could energize a team. That day, everything seemed to align perfectly — from his warm-up to his approach against each batter.
The crowd at Yankee Stadium was electric, sensing the significance as Wells approached the final innings. Each out was met with growing anticipation, and when the final strike was called, the stadium erupted in celebration.
Legacy and Impact
David Wells’ perfect game remains one of the greatest moments in Yankees history. It came during a season when the Yankees were a powerhouse, eventually winning the World Series and beginning a late-1990s dynasty that would see multiple championships.
Beyond the stats, Wells’ perfect game is remembered for his personality and candidness. In later years, he famously claimed to have been “a little hungover” during the game, adding a colorful anecdote to baseball lore and reminding fans that even the best athletes are human.
A Shout Out to David Wells
Today, on the anniversary of his historic perfect game, it’s a perfect time to give David Wells a big shout out for his remarkable achievement. His flawless performance stands as a shining example of what dedication, talent, and a bit of grit can accomplish on the baseball diamond.
Whether you’re a longtime Yankees fan or a lover of baseball history, Wells’ perfect game is a milestone worth celebrating and remembering for generations to come.