See how sharp everyone is...?

Typically one would reason the the minimum number of pitches would be 25 for a visiting pitcher and 27 for a home pitcher.

However, on further reflection consider the following scenario. With the first pitch of each inning, the pitcher hits the batter who then advances to first base. This counts as 1 pitch. The next batter is pitched to but interferes with the catcher who attempts to throw the runner out. This doesn't count as a pitch due to the batters interference with the catcher. The batter is called out by the umpire, is credited with an at bat, but the pitcher is not credited with another pitch. Repeat this scenario each inning for both teams. Since only the first pitch of each inning counts as a pitch, only 9 pitches could be thrown by the home team pitcher if the home team wins and 9 pitches would be thrown by the losing pitcher when the first batter of the bottom of the 9th inning hits a home run. NINE PITCHES!

NOT QUITE!

Baseball rule 8.04 states that when the bases are unoccupied, the pitcher shall deliver the ball to the batter within 20 seconds after he receives the ball. Each time the pitcher delays the game by violating this rule, the umpire shall call "Ball." The intent of this rule is to avoid unnecessary delays. The umpire shall insist that the catcher return the ball promptly to the pitcher, and that the pitcher take his position on the rubber promptly.

Obvious delay by the pitcher should instantly be penalized by the umpire.

It is therefore possible for a pitcher to delay four times in a row, walking the batter to first base, and then pick him off. If he does this for every batter, he can "pitch" a full game (a no-hitter, incidentally) without ever actually delivering a pitch. Now, it is inconceivable that a pitcher would do that in actual play, or that a manager or umpire would allow it to happen, but it is allowable under the rules.

THEREFORE ZERO PITCHES!

24

24

27

It is impossible. The home team can never win a complete nine inning game because it would mean they made the last out.

27 if the first pitch he threw to a batter resulted in an out or 81 if the pitcher got three strikes in a row for each batter.

24 from the home team

27 if he's the away pitcher.

25, because he's the losing pitcher and he give's up a home run.

24, if he plays for homers

27, if he's visiting.