The Magic of Momentum: MLB's Greatest Winning Streaks

In baseball, momentum is everything. A hot streak can define a season, electrify a fanbase, and rewrite record books. The 2025 Los Angeles Dodgers demonstrated this by opening their World Series defense with an impressive 8-0 run - the best start ever by a reigning champion. Yet even this achievement pales next to some of the most legendary streaks in MLB history.

The Gold Standard: The 1916 New York Giants

The undisputed kings of consistency, John McGraw's Giants compiled an incredible 26-game winning streak from September 7-30, 1916. This remarkable run included 12 road wins and featured legendary pitcher Christy Mathewson contributing both on the mound and (in one game) at first base.

Modern Marvels:

• 2017 Cleveland Guardians: The AL's longest streak at 22 games, powered by Francisco Lindor and pitching dominance
• 2002 Oakland A's: The "Moneyball" team rode their 20-game streak to a 103-win season
• 1947 New York Yankees: This 19-game stretch propelled Joe DiMaggio's squad to a World Series title

Early Baseball Dominance

Baseball's early era produced some remarkable runs:

• 1880 Chicago White Stockings (21 games): The pre-modern era record held for 36 years
• 1884 Providence Grays (20 games): Featured Hall of Famer Old Hoss Radbourn winning 59 games that season

What Makes a Great Streak?

These historic runs demonstrate:

1. Balanced team performance (not just pitching or hitting)
2. Clutch performances in close games
3. Depth to overcome injuries and fatigue

For current MLB standings and potential streak alerts, visit ESPN MLB Hub.