Big time hitters at any age dream about driving in the game-winning run, hitting a walk-off home run in the postseason, and even striking fear in an opponent by being intentionally walked. But the benchmark that all hitters try to achieve in their careers is hitting for the cycle.
The cycle? Like a bicycle? What does a bicycle have anything to do with baseball? No need to worry, we have you covered on all things related to hitting for the cycle, including the hit for the cycle meaning, here at JustBats. Are you ready? Let's dive in.
What is a Cycle in Baseball?
For those new to baseball and softball wondering, “what does it mean to hit for the cycle?” it refers to when a batter hits a single, double, triple, and home run in the same game. Achieving this feat is considered rare because it requires a combination of skill, speed, and a bit of luck. Each type of hit represents a different level of difficulty:
- Single: The most common hit, where the batter safely reaches first base.
- Double: A hit that allows the batter to reach second base.
- Triple: A more challenging hit where the batter makes it to third base, often requiring speed.
- Home Run: The grand finale—a hit that clears the outfield fence, allowing the batter to round all the bases. Doing so is extremely difficult, but we have some suggestions on how to hit home runs consistently.
To complete the cycle, these hits must occur in a single game, making it a memorable accomplishment for any player.
Types of Cycles
Interestingly, not all cycles are created equal. Here are a few notable variations:
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Natural Cycle: This occurs when the player hits the single, double, triple, and home run in order. It’s even rarer than a standard cycle.
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Reverse Cycle: As the name suggests, the player completes the cycle in reverse order, starting with a home run and ending with a single.
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Immaculate Cycle: Achieved within the minimum four at-bats, this variation is celebrated for its efficiency.
Why Is Hitting for the Cycle So Rare?
There are a few reasons why hitting for the cycle is a rare achievement:
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Triple Trouble: Triples are the most challenging of the four hits due to the precise combination of placement, speed, and outfield errors often required.
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Game Context: Batters often don’t get enough at-bats in a game to achieve all four types of hits.
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All-Round Skill: The player needs to be versatile—able to hit for power (home runs), placement (singles and doubles), and speed (triples).
Hitting for the Cycle History
Hitting for the cycle is an extremely rare feat for any baseball player. The regular cycle has only been achieved less than 350 times in MLB history. Just to put this extremely rare feat into perspective, there have been more than 200,000 professional baseball games played and in approximately 300 of them a player has hit for a single, double, triple and home run. Even more, the cycle for a hitter is equivalent to the no-hitter for a pitcher and the natural cycle for a hitter is equivalent to the perfect game for a pitcher. Basically, achieving any of these feats in your career will enshrine you in baseball royalty forever.
Has Anyone Hit for the Cycle?
With how rare this accomplishment is, only a few notable players have made the list.
- First player to hit for the cycle - Curry Foley for the Buffalo Bisons in 1882.
- Player to hit for the most cycles - John Reilly, Bob Meusel, Babe Herman, and Adrian Beltre have all hit for the cycle three (3) times.
- Latest pro player to hit for the cycle - Jose Abreu in September of 2017 vs. the San Francisco Giants.
- Youngest player to hit for the cycle - Mel Ott at age 20
- Oldest player to hit for the cycle - Dave Winfield at age 39
- Shortest time elapsed in between hitting for cycles - John Reilly, one week apart
Has a Rookie Ever Hit for the Cycle?
Even fewer rookies have accomplished this feat, but it does happen. Recently in the 2024 season for example, Weston Wilson became the first rookie in Phillies history to make it happen
Hitting for the Cycle Fun Facts
Now that you know what hitting for the cycle means and how rare it is for players to achieve, here are some fun facts about who, where and when cycles have been hit for.
- Most cycles hit in a season - Eight in both the 1993 and 2009 seasons
- Teams that have never hit for the cycle - The Miami Marlins
- Fielding position with least amount of cycles hit for - Catchers
- Hitting for the cycle with a grand slam - 9
- Hardest hit to achieve while going for the cycle - Triple
The Science of the Cycle: How to Achieve This Rare Feat
The art and luck of accomplishing this baseball achievement requires a blend of skill, strategy, and the right equipment. Understanding the science behind this feat can help players enhance their chances of reaching this exciting milestone.
1. Mastering the Basics of Each Hit
- Single: Prioritize contact and placement. A quick, controlled swing with a balanced bat helps you place the ball where defenders can’t reach it easily.
- Double: Look for gaps in the outfield. A bat with a larger sweet spot can help drive the ball deep enough to earn extra bases.
- Triple: Speed and power are key. Practice hitting down the lines or into large outfields where triples are more achievable. Lightweight bats can aid quick swings and fast running.
- Home Run: Focus on power mechanics—hip rotation, bat speed, and the right launch angle. A bat optimized for power, like end-loaded models, can give you an edge.
2. The Role of Bat Selection
Choosing the right bat can influence your ability to adapt to different situations. Check out our Bat Coach guide to choosing the right bat for you!
- Balanced Bats are ideal for versatility, making it easier to handle different types of pitches.
- End-Loaded Bats provide extra power for deep hits, useful for doubles and home runs.
- Hybrid Baseball Bats with composite handles and alloy barrels give a mix of speed and power, suited for diverse hitting goals.
3. Understanding Situational Hitting
- Analyze Pitcher Tendencies: Study how pitchers work the zone to predict pitches that favor singles or extra-base hits.
- Adapt to Field Dimensions: Know the dimensions of the ballpark—some are more conducive to triples or home runs.
- Base Running IQ: Even if you hit a ball that seems destined to be a single, aggressive base running can stretch it into a double or triple.
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Now that you are all informed on what hitting for the cycle means, we want to hear from you. Are you one of the best hitters on your team? Do you think you have what it takes to hit for the cycle? Have you or any of your teammates been close to one?
Meanwhile, if you ever have any baseball bat or softball bat related questions, don’t hesitate to give our Bat Experts a call at 866-321-2287 , send us an email at experts@justbats.com or click here to live chat with our bat experts. And remember, we are always here for you from Click to Hit!
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