Catching history

In the major leagues’ modern era that begins in 1900, a total of only 22 pitchers author perfect games.

Of those 22 perfect games, only one catcher handles two of them.

That would be journeyman Ron Hassey, who 32 years ago today is behind the plate for Montreal as the Expos’ Dennis Martinez throws the sport’s 11th perfect game in a 2-0 victory over Los Angeles at Dodger Stadium.

Hassey’s work comes 10 years after he calls the pitches in Len Barker’s 3-0 masterpiece for the Indians over Toronto at Cleveland’s Municipal Stadium.

The 1991 season is Hassey’s last in the game and the only one in spends in Montreal as he plays with six teams during his 14 seasons in the majors.