In Summary

Ken Johnson’s April 23 outing was a pitcher’s dream and nightmare in one: dominant on the mound, but undone by tiny errors. A rare and unforgettable slice of baseball history.

Why It Matters

• Johnson's game stands as a unique oddity in modern baseball lore—a heartbreaking masterpiece.

• The story also underscores how defensive miscues, not just pitching performances, can shape a game’s fate.

• Despite this gem, the Colt .45s struggled all season, finishing 9th in the NL with a 66–96 record

  
  

  Scoring Breakdown

  • In the top of the 9th, Reds’ Pete Rose laid down a bunt. Johnson’s errant throw allowed Rose to reach second

  • Two batters later, Vada Pinson grounded out but Nellie Fox committed a critical error on the play—scoring Rose from second

    • That lone, unearned run decided the entire game.