Arlington, Texas. The Houston Astros have added a new chapter to their sporting legacy after achieving the franchise’s 18th no-hitter, defeating the Texas Rangers with a score of 9-0 at Globe Life Field, during Memorial Day. Japanese pitcher Tatsuya Imai led the historic performance, completing six innings without allowing any hits, in what is considered the best presentation of his young career in the Major Leagues. Imai combined with relievers Steven Okert and Alimber Santa, to secure the first no-hitter of the season.
Imai, who joined the Astros this season from Japanese baseball, demonstrated his dominance after issuing walks to the first two batters of the game. He then managed to retire 15 of the last 17 opponents he faced, with the support of a solid defense, including a standout play by shortstop Jeremy Peña. After a flawless seventh inning from Okert, Joe Espada relied on Alimber Santa for the final two innings. The 23-year-old Dominican reliever responded with six outs in his Major League debut, sealing the historic feat by striking out Brandon Nimmo for the final out of the game.After the first inning, no one would have imagined that result, but Imai kept competing and attacking the zone. It was six solid innings, and the rest is history.
Joe Espada, Astros manager
This combined no-hitter is the fifth in Astros history and the first since Game 4 of the 2022 World Series. In addition, Santa becomes the second player in MLB history to participate in a no-hitter during his major league debut. In terms of offense, the Astros had a home run from Cuban Yordan Álvarez and another three-run homer from Christian Walker. With this victory, the Astros extend their streak to four consecutive wins, improving their record to 5-2 during the current 10-game road trip.I never imagined entering to finish a game without a hit or a run.
Alimber Santa
