Triple Play

A triple play is a defensive play in which three offensive players are put out during one continuous action. It's one of the rarest events in baseball, happening only a handful of times each season.

Requirements for a Triple Play

For a triple play to be possible:

• At least two runners must be on base
• Fewer than two outs
• The batted ball allows for three outs before anyone reaches base

Common Triple Play Scenarios

The 5-4-3 Triple Play

1. Runners on first and second, no outs
2. Line drive to third baseman (5)
3. Third baseman steps on third (force out)
4. Throws to second (4) for another force
5. Second baseman throws to first (3) to beat the batter

Around the Horn

• Line drive caught, then throws around the bases to get runners who left early

The Unassisted Triple Play

The rarest play in baseball, one fielder records all three outs alone. It typically happens when:

1. Line drive caught by a middle infielder
2. They step on a base for a force
3. They tag a runner coming from another base

Only 15 unassisted triple plays have occurred in MLB history!

Famous Triple Plays

• Bill Wambsganss (1920): Only unassisted triple play in World Series history
• Troy Tulowitzki (2007): Unassisted triple play at shortstop
• Eric Bruntlett (2009): Game-ending unassisted triple play

Triple Play Rarity

• MLB averages about 5-6 triple plays per season
• About 730 triple plays in MLB history
• Unassisted triple plays: Only 15 ever