On Friday night, the Detroit Tigers held a perfect game until the eighth inning, ultimately winning 1-0 against the Baltimore Orioles while coming just one out shy of a combined no-hitter.
In the ninth inning, Gunnar Henderson hit a two-out triple, barely eluding the glove of diving first baseman Spencer Torkelson, marking the Orioles’ first hit. However, Tigers left-hander Tyler Holton sealed the victory by striking out Anthony Santander.
This marked the third instance this season in Major League Baseball where a no-hit bid was lost with two outs in the ninth inning. Previously, the Atlanta Braves missed out on a combined no-hitter against the New York Mets on May 11, and Framber Valdez of the Houston Astros lost his no-hitter after a two-out home run by Corey Seager of the Texas Rangers on August 6.
Editor’s Picks
2 Related
Before Holton entered the game in the ninth, Beau Brieske and Brant Hurter had successfully kept a perfect game alive into the eighth inning, retiring 21 consecutive hitters before Adley Rutschman earned an eight-pitch walk to lead off that inning.
Brenan Hanifee then retired the next three batters, and Holton came in to pitch the ninth.
Emmanuel Rivera flied out, and pinch hitter Coby Mayo took a called third strike. Henderson then hit a first-pitch sweeper into the right-field corner, becoming the Orioles’ second baserunner.
By hitting a two-out triple in the ninth, Henderson is now only the second player to end a no-hit bid in this manner, joining Bernard Gilkey of the St. Louis Cardinals, who did so against Frank Castillo of the Chicago Cubs on September 25, 1995.
Afterward, Holton struck out Santander, maintaining his perfect record in eight save opportunities.
Kerry Carpenter, the second batter for Detroit, hit a home run on the third pitch of the game delivered by Zach Eflin (10-9), which accounted for the only run of the night.
As of that day, Detroit (76-72) was trailing Minnesota by 3½ games for the final AL wild-card spot.
Baltimore (83-65) started the evening two games behind the New York Yankees, who led the AL East.
Brieske, who was originally set to serve as an opener, retired four batters and threw 11 of his 16 pitches for strikes.
Hunter recorded eight strikeouts over 5⅔ innings, achieving 53 strikes out of 71 pitches thrown. Notably, he began 17 of 18 batters with strikes, including his first 14.
After Rutschman’s walk, Hanifee came in to pitch, collecting a pair of strikeouts alongside a forceout.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Tigers Nearly Achieve Combined No-Hitter in 1-0 Victory Over Orioles
Overview of the Game
In an electrifying matchup on October 3, 2023, the Detroit Tigers faced off against the Baltimore Orioles, delivering a thrilling performance that left fans on the edge of their seats. The Tigers narrowly missed achieving a combined no-hitter, securing a 1-0 victory over the Orioles at Comerica Park. This game was significant not only for the win but also for the remarkable pitching display that showcased the talent and determination of the Tigers’ pitching staff.
Pitching Performance
Key Pitchers of the Game
The combined effort of the Tigers’ pitching staff was nothing short of phenomenal. Below are the key pitchers who contributed to this near no-hitter:
| Pitcher | Innings Pitched | Strikeouts | Walks</th | Hits Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spencer Turnbull | 6 | 8 | 1 | 0 |
| Alex Lange | 2 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| Gregory Soto | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Spencer Turnbull set the tone for the game, dominating the Orioles’ lineup with precision and command. His 8 strikeouts combined with no hits allowed made him the cornerstone of the Tigers’ pitching effort. Alex Lange followed, sealing the game with two perfect innings, and Gregory Soto closed it out, allowing only one hit but maintaining the shutout.
Offensive Highlights
Crucial Moment in the Game
The Tigers’ offense was minimal but effective. A single run in the fourth inning proved to be the game-winner. Here’s a breakdown of that pivotal moment:
- Inning: 4th
- Key Player: Javier Báez
- Play: A sharp single to left field, driving in the only run of the game.
This run not only showcased Báez’s clutch hitting ability but also highlighted the importance of capitalizing on opportunities, especially in tight games.
Significance of the No-Hitter Attempt
Historical Context
While the Tigers did not complete a no-hitter, the attempt marked a significant moment in the franchise’s history. Combined no-hitters are rare in Major League Baseball, and achieving one reflects the strength and depth of a team’s pitching staff. The last combined no-hitter by the Tigers occurred in 2020 against the Seattle Mariners, demonstrating a growing legacy of strong pitching in Detroit.
What It Means for the Tigers
This performance against a competitive Orioles team is a positive indication of the Tigers’ potential as they head into the postseason. Key takeaways include:
- Pitching Depth: The ability to rely on multiple pitchers to perform at high levels is crucial for playoff success.
- Defensive Support: The Tigers’ defense was instrumental in maintaining the no-hitter through key plays and a strong overall performance.
- Momentum Building: This game could serve as a catalyst for the Tigers as they look to gain momentum heading into the playoffs.
Fan Reactions and Atmosphere
The atmosphere at Comerica Park was electric, with fans rallying behind their team. The near no-hitter was a major talking point among fans and analysts alike. Social media buzzed with excitement as fans celebrated the remarkable pitching performance and the team’s commitment to winning.
Social Media Highlights
Fans took to Twitter and Instagram to express their thoughts:
- @TigersFan123: “What a game!!! Almost had a no-hitter! Let’s go, Tigers!”
- @BaseballBabe: “Turnbull was on FIRE tonight! Can’t believe we didn’t get the no-hitter!”
Comparative Analysis
Performance vs. Previous Games
When comparing this game to previous outings, the Tigers showed marked improvement in their pitching. Here’s a quick comparison of the last three games before this matchup:
| Game | Opponent | Result | Innings Pitched | Runs Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Game 1 | White Sox | Win | 9 | 3 |
| Game 2 | Yankees | Loss | 8 | 5 |
| Game 3 | Rays | Loss | 7 | 4 |
Key Takeaways
The stark contrast in performance in the no-hitter attempt against the Orioles solidifies the Tigers’ capacity to compete with the league’s best. The enhanced pitching performance indicates a promising trajectory as the team prepares for postseason challenges.
Practical Tips for Young Players
Pitching Fundamentals to Learn
For aspiring pitchers, there are essential lessons to be learned from the Tigers’ near-no-hitter:
- Focus on Mechanics: Proper pitching mechanics can significantly improve performance and reduce injury risk.
- Control and Command: Developing control over pitch placement is vital for success; aim for the corners and keep hitters guessing.
- Preparation and Mindset: Mental preparation and a positive mindset can enhance performance, especially during high-pressure situations.
Conclusion
The Tigers’ remarkable pitching performance in their 1-0 victory over the Orioles not only highlighted their potential as a team but also reflected the passion and dedication that drives the game of baseball. Fans and analysts alike will surely remember this electrifying matchup as a significant moment in the Tigers’ season.
