July 12, 1946: Grady Hatton’s fluke double robs Braves pitcher Johnny Sain of a perfect game at Crosley Field. In the first inning, Hatton’s pop fly fell between SS Dick Culler, third baseman Connie Ryan, and left fielder Bama Rowell. He was the only Cincinnati baserunner as the Braves won, 1-0.
Reds starter Ewell Blackwell took the loss. This brand of had luck was typical for Blackwell in ’46. He had an ERA of 2.45, allowed only one homer in 190 innings, and led the league with 6 shutouts, but had a 9-13 won-lost record.
All “Reds trivia†posts come from Greg Rhodes and John Snyder’s fabulous book, “Redleg Journal†(see link for purchasing) and are used with Greg’s permission.
Thanks again to Greg Rhodes for permission to use his material.