SHARP FROM HIS first pitch, Ervin Santana threw the first solo no-hitter for the LA Angels in nearly 27 years, leading them to a 3-1 win over the Cleveland Indians last night.
The 28-year-old righty struck out 10 and allowed only two runners — there was an error on the leadoff batter in the first inning and a walk in the eighth.
Just once was Santana’s gem in jeopardy and second baseman Howie Kendrick’s nifty play saved it in the sixth.
This was the third no-hitter in the major leagues this season, yet another sign that this, indeed, is another Year of the Pitcher.
Minnesota’s Francisco Liriano did it against the Chicago White Sox on 3 May and Detroit ace Justin Verlander beat Toronto four days later.
Overall, it was the ninth no-hitter in Angels’ history.
Santana said he began to think a no-hitter was within reach after he got through the eighth.
Lots of guys get to five, six innings, but that’s when things get a little complicated.
The closest Cleveland got to a hit came when rookie Jason Kipnis led off the sixth with a grounder past Santana. Kendrick made a diving, backhand stop, threw from his knees and first baseman Mark Trumbo scooped out the low throw for the out.
“I knew the situation. We all did,” Kendrick said. “I wanted to get to that ball and at least knock it down. I was happy to play a part.”
“It’s my first no-hitter, too,” he said. “What a day. I had goosebumps walking off the field.”
Afterwards, coach Mike Scioscia said: “It’s anything but tension.”
There was excitement. When you see a guy get within nine outs, then six outs, then three outs … your focus is winning the game, but past that, you’re looking for that cherry on top, which Ervin delivered. It was fun to watch.
