Canadian Soroka throws immaculate fifth inning in D-Backs debut

Diamondbacks pitcher becomes fourth in franchise history to achieve the rare feat.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 5:26am

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Arizona Diamondbacks right-hander Michael Soroka, a Canadian native, threw an immaculate fifth inning on Monday night against the Detroit Tigers, striking out three batters on just nine pitches. Soroka is the fourth pitcher in Diamondbacks franchise history to accomplish the rare feat.

Why it matters

An immaculate inning, where a pitcher strikes out the side on just nine pitches, is one of the rarest accomplishments in baseball. It demonstrates exceptional control and dominance on the mound, making Soroka's debut performance all the more impressive.

The details

Soroka, who was making his first appearance for the Diamondbacks after being traded from the Toronto Blue Jays in the offseason, struck out the side in the fifth inning against the Tigers on just nine pitches. The 24-year-old right-hander fanned Javier Báez, Spencer Torkelson, and Kerry Carpenter in succession to complete the immaculate frame.

  • Soroka threw the immaculate inning on Monday, March 31, 2026.
  • It occurred in the fifth inning of the game between the Diamondbacks and Tigers.

The players

Michael Soroka

A 24-year-old right-handed pitcher making his debut for the Arizona Diamondbacks after being traded from the Toronto Blue Jays in the offseason.

Javier Báez

Detroit Tigers infielder who was one of the three batters Soroka struck out in the immaculate inning.

Spencer Torkelson

Detroit Tigers first baseman who was one of the three batters Soroka struck out in the immaculate inning.

Kerry Carpenter

Detroit Tigers outfielder who was one of the three batters Soroka struck out in the immaculate inning.

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What they’re saying

“That was just an incredible display of pitching. Soroka was absolutely locked in and overpowering our hitters.”

— A.J. Hinch, Detroit Tigers Manager

What’s next

Soroka will look to build on his impressive debut as the Diamondbacks continue their series against the Tigers. His next scheduled start is on April 5th against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The takeaway

Soroka's immaculate inning in his Diamondbacks debut is a testament to his talent and potential as a rising star in the league. The rare feat showcases his exceptional control and dominance on the mound, setting high expectations for the young Canadian pitcher's future with Arizona.