Toronto Blue Jays pitcher throws a no hitter
Photo credit: JaysProspects.com
Rafel Sanchez made history on Saturday while playing for the Toronto Blue Jays' Double-A affiliate in New Hampshire.
In the opening game of a doubleheader, he tossed a complete game seven-inning no-hitter, leading the Fisher Cats to a 4-0 victory over Altoona.
Blue Jays top prospect adds his name to the history books.
Matt Postins from the Toronto Blue Jays On Si writes that the doubleheader was scheduled after Friday's game was rained out, with both matchups set for seven innings, a standout format for minor league doubleheaders.
Sanchez became the third pitcher in Fisher Cats history to throw a complete game no-hitter, joining alumni Jamie Vermilyea (2004) and Kyle Drabek (2010). It marked the fourth no-hitter in the franchise's history, with the other being a combined effort.
"Sanchez also became the first Fisher Cats pitcher to throw three complete games in a career. In fact, he was the first to do it twice when he tossed a rain-shortened, six-inning complete game on April 25 against Binghamton. Sanchez walked two and struck out two in the victory to lower his ERA to 4.91. He retired eight of the final nine hitters he faced. He improved his season record to 2-3." -Postins
The 25-year-old native of Cuba signed with the organization as an international free agent in 2022 and has steadily climbed the ranks within the system.
"In 11 starts this season he has 34 strikeouts and 17 walks in 47.2 innings. Batters are hitting .285 against him and he has a 1.47 WHIP." -Postins
In his minor league career, Sanchez holds a 16-17 record with a 3.96 ERA across 68 appearances, including 66 starts. Over 327.0 innings, he's recorded 320 strikeouts and 93 walks, with opposing hitters batting .267 against him and a 1.33 WHIP.
Sanchez appears to be the future of the Blue Jays' starting rotation. Perhaps he can join them sooner rathe than later.
Previously on Blue Jays Insider
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JUIN 9 | 1431 ANSWERS Toronto Blue Jays pitcher throws a no hitter Do you think Blue Jays prospect Rafael Sanchez has a future in the MLB? |
yes | 1131 | 79 % |
no | 300 | 21 % |
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