Mookie Betts' remarkable run of 129 straight plate appearances without a strikeout came to an end Wednesday when the Boston Red Sox right fielder whiffed on a 84-mph slider from Toronto Blue Jays left-hander Francisco Liriano in the fourth inning.
It was the first time Betts had struck out since Sept. 12 of last season and marked the longest run in the majors since Juan Pierre went 147 plate appearances without striking out in 2004.
During an age when strikeouts are the norm, Betts' streak remains a remarkable feat, especially when looking at the major-league strikeout leaders during his run.
September 13 - April 18
PLAYER | PA | SO | K% |
---|---|---|---|
Byron Buxton | 119 | 49 | 41% |
Danny Espinosa | 115 | 47 | 41% |
Randal Grichuk | 126 | 47 | 37% |
Chris Davis | 133 | 42 | 31% |
Logan Forsythe | 135 | 41 | 30% |
Mike Napoli | 130 | 40 | 31% |
Brad Miller | 132 | 40 | 30% |
Jonathan Villar | 141 | 40 | 28% |
Betts, who hit .353/.418/.448 with two home runs and five doubles during the streak, started a new run of two straight plate appearances without a strikeout Wednesday following the Liriano punch out.