Braves Legend Greg Maddux Holds Unbreakable MLB Base-Stealing Record

The Hall of Fame pitcher set an astounding mark for most seasons stealing bases without getting caught.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 10:50am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the fractured motion of a baseball pitcher and a sliding baserunner, rendered in a vibrant color palette, capturing the intelligence and skill behind Maddux's unbreakable base-stealing record.Maddux's unparalleled baserunning IQ allowed him to steal bases with impunity, an overlooked part of the Hall of Famer's storied career.Atlanta Today

Atlanta Braves legend Greg Maddux, known for his pinpoint control and longevity as a starting pitcher, also holds a surprising and likely unbreakable MLB record - the most seasons with at least one stolen base without being caught, with 10. This little-known aspect of Maddux's game highlights his baseball IQ and ability to pick his spots on the basepaths, even as a pitcher.

Why it matters

Maddux's base-stealing prowess is an overlooked part of his Hall of Fame career, which was defined by his command, consistency, and longevity as one of the greatest pitchers of his era. This record demonstrates Maddux's all-around baseball skills and intelligence, and is a unique statistical achievement that may never be matched, especially as pitchers bat less frequently in the modern game.

The details

Over his 23-year MLB career, Maddux stole at least one base in 10 different seasons without being caught, an astounding feat for a pitcher. He was able to pick his spots carefully and avoid being thrown out, unlike many other pitchers who attempted to steal bases more frequently and were more likely to be caught. Maddux's ability to time his stolen base attempts and avoid being thrown out contributed to his reputation as one of the smartest and most well-rounded players of his generation.

  • Maddux set the record for most seasons with at least one stolen base without being caught over his 23-year MLB career from 1986 to 2008.

The players

Greg Maddux

A Hall of Fame pitcher who spent the majority of his career with the Atlanta Braves, known for his pinpoint control, longevity, and intelligence on the mound.

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What they’re saying

“The record for MLB seasons in which a player steals at least one base and doesn't get caught is 10 seasons. It's held by Maddux.”

— Codify

The takeaway

Greg Maddux's ability to successfully steal bases without being caught, despite being a pitcher, is a testament to his all-around baseball skills and intelligence. This little-known record may never be broken, as the modern game features fewer pitchers batting and stealing bases. Maddux's base-stealing prowess is an overlooked part of his Hall of Fame legacy.