Full Breakdown
Managers Pull Young Pitchers from Perfect-Game Bids Over Pitch-Count Concerns
7/10/2026, 6:31:52 PM
Injury History and Pitch-Count Policy
Jones returned in May 2026 after an internal-brace procedure on his ulnar collateral ligament and has been limited to “five innings or 80 pitches, whichever comes first.” He logged 77 pitches over six innings before being lifted. Pérez, who underwent Tommy John surgery on April 8 2024, was on a “90-plus-a-batter” limit, having thrown 92 pitches through seven perfect innings. Both clubs emphasized protecting young, high-velocity arms that have recent major-league surgeries.
Official Statements
- “Going into this game, 90 plus a batter was a pitch count that I felt comfortable with him coming back off the time on the IL … I made a calculated decision of where he was with his pitch count.” — Clayton McCullough, Marlins manager
- “Health is the most important thing, winning the game and then personal accomplishments third.” — Don Kelly, Pirates manager
- “It sucks,” Kelly added after the game, acknowledging fan disappointment while stressing the need to keep Jones healthy for the season.
Fan Reaction and Criticism
The removal sparked boos at PNC Park and a social-media backlash. Columnist John Perrotto tweeted, “I hated it. I’ve accepted that it is standard operating procedure in today’s game.” Beat reporters and some fans argued the decision robbed them of a historic moment, while others accepted the precautionary approach.
Historical Frequency & Numbers
- Jones’ six perfect innings made him the first modern-era starter to retire every batter through six innings and still lose the game.
- Pérez’ seven perfect innings were the second combined perfect-game attempt in four days, following a similar pull on May 21 2025 (Jones’ surgery date).
- From 1901-2015 there were 0 combined perfect-game attempts; from 2016-2025 there were 3; and in the current week there were 2.
The pattern illustrates MLB’s growing emphasis on arm health over the pursuit of singular statistical milestones.
