Milt Pappas' no-hitter/near perfect game stood as a rare feat in two ways for nearly 43 years. In 1972, Pappas became the first pitcher since 1908 to lose a perfect game bid on the 27th batter without giving up a hit. Not since Hooks Wiltse's HBP in 1908 had a free base been issued to the 27th batter. The walk by Pappas would be the last of its kind until June 2015, when Max Scherzer's perfect game bid was spoiled with 26 outs by Jose Tabata's elbow pad.
Even with that inglorious drought ended, Pappas still held the distinction of throwing the most recent no-hitter in the 'friendly confines' of Wrigley Field. That feat now belongs to left hander, Cole Hamels, who no-hit the Cubs on July 25, 2015.
For Pappas, his day in the sun was near the end of a long, weird career. This eventful no-hitter was one of the final chapters in a career of prominent lowlights (being on the wrong lopsided end of the Frank Robinson to Baltimore trade/admitting to giving up Roger Maris' 59th homerun out of spite towards Ford Frick) and highlights (striking out the side on only 9 pitches).
The memorable 9th inning and more, after the jump.
