By The Last Hollywood Star
The Pittsburgh Pirates got a positive national television mention after Game One of the World Series. Usually, when the Pirates' name surfaces on a major network, it's to heap scorn on the team.
But after Cliff Lee pitched a complete opening game, striking out ten and walking none, researchers went into the archives to dig out Deacon Phillippe's 1903 performances.
Phillippe was the last pitcher to put up those numbers.
Back in 1903, the World Series was a best of nine affair. In the opener, Phillippe out dueled Cy Young in a complete game effort.
Get this---Phillippe pitched four other complete games, two on back-to-back days, and went 3-2 in the Pirates loss to the Boston Americans. For good measure, Phillippe pitched in relief in two other games.
Take that, pitch count crazy Joe Kerrigan!
Phillippe's five complete game decisions are a World Series record that will stand forever unless current format reverts to best of nine.
If that ever happens, the World Series could extend to Thanksgiving.
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