June 8, 1968

Walter Johnson's consecutive scoreless streak of 55 2/3 innings has lasted for 55 years. After pitching shutouts in his past six starts, Los Angeles Dodgers right-hander Don Drysdale breaks the record tonight.

Drysdale's streak reaches 58 2/3 innings before the Philadelphia Phillies score. Ironically, the streak is snapped by a player who will knock in only one run this year. Pinch-hitter Howie Bedell, just purchased from the minors, hits a sacrifice fly, sending Tony Taylor home in the fifth.

Drysdale allows runs the next two innings before being relieved in the Dodgers' 5-3 victory. "I wanted the record so bad, but I'm glad it's over," Drysdale says. "I could feel myself go blah when the run scored. I just let down emotionally. I'm sure it was the mental strain."

After Drysdale breaks the record in the third inning, Phillies manager Gene Mauch accuses the pitcher of using a foreign substance and umpire Augie Donatelli examines Drysdale's left wrist and hair. He warns Drysdale not to touch the back of his head with his right hand or he would be ejected.