In 1919, a man was pitching in the American League for the Cleveland Indians. His name was Ray Caldwell.<\/p>\n
Caldwell was a fine pitcher. He threw the 91st no-hitter in the history of Major League Baseball. But like many, he had a problem handling his alcohol (and perhaps with other off-the-field issues as well).<\/p>\n
When he was “on”, Caldwell was very good to great. But due to his off-field issues, he simply wasn’t “on” often enough.<\/p>\n
But on two days during his career, he made history. I’ve already mentioned his no-hitter – and that’s IMO the second<\/i> most amazing performance in his career. <\/p>\n
On 24 August 1919, Caldwell was pitching for Cleveland at home. He was one out away from a complete game victory.<\/p>\n
Unfortunately, there were thunderstorms in the area. One came inland from Lake Erie – bringing lightning.<\/p>\n
Lightning struck the park. At least three players were affected by the lightning strike, along with an undetermined number of spectators. <\/p>\n
Caldwell was one of the players affected. He was knocked unconscious. He lay on the ground for about 5 minutes. Some feared that he might be dead.<\/p>\n
He wasn’t. After about 5 minutes, Caldwell came to. He got up.<\/p>\n
And then, Caldwell finished the game<\/i>.<\/p>\n
Yes, you read that correctly. After literally getting struck by lightning and knocked unconscious, Ray Caldwell got up and finished the game<\/u>, pitching to the final batter and recording the final out by inducing a groundout to third.<\/p>\n