Pittsburgh Pirates: Connor Overton Makes MLB History

Since joining the Pittsburgh Pirates right-handed pitcher Connor Overton has pitched 4 scoreless innings bringing his career total to a MLB record 10.2 scoreless innings pitched

On September 3rd, in a move that was widely overlooked across baseball, the Toronto Blue Jays designated right-handed pitcher Connor Overton for assignment. After being DFA’d, Overton was claimed off waivers by the Pittsburgh Pirates.

When the Pittsburgh Pirates claimed Overton off waivers it was another move that went overlooked across baseball. Overton was soon added to the Pirate active roster and made his debut with the club this past Sunday.

In his debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates Overton pitched a scoreless inning against the Washington Nationals. By doing this Overton put himself at 7.2 scoreless innings pitched both on the season and in his MLB career.

Prior to being claimed by the Pittsburgh Pirates the 28-year-old righty was having a strong season in the Toronto system. In 57.2 innings pitched in 21 games at the Triple-A level Overton posted a 2.03 ERA, 3.14 FIP, he allowed just 3 home runs and struck out 21.6% of batters faced to go with a 4.3% walk rate.

This led to Overton getting an opportunity with the Blue Jays. Pitching for the Blue Jays Overton tossed 6.2 scoreless inning, allowing just 4 hits to go with a pair of walks issued and 4 strikeouts. While it was a small sample size it had to feel good for Overton. Not only did he finally make his MLB debut but he pitched well in the process.

What he showed in this small sample size was enough to catch the attention of the Pirates. Since joining the Pirates he has picked up where he left off with Toronto. After pitching 3 scoreless innings against the Reds on Thursday, Overton now has 4 scoreless innings with the Pirates which has led to him making some history.

That’s right, Overton’s 10.2 scoreless innings is the most innings a pitcher has ever pitched in MLB history without allowing a run. Pretty impressive for a pitcher that found himself posting ads on social media looking for work prior to the Blue Jays signing him to am minor league contract in February.

While it is no guarantee that Overton survives the offseason as a member of the Pirate 40-man roster his story is still a cool one. He has gone from a career minor league pitcher who was posting ads for work on social media this past offseason to making MLB history.