Blake Snell, the reigning National League Cy Young Award winner, threw his first complete game on Friday night, a no-hitter against the Cincinnati Reds. This historic outing included 11 strikeouts and three walks, with Elly De La Cruz’s line out to right field preserving the no-hitter. Despite a rough start to the season with a 9.51 ERA in his first five starts, Snell has turned things around in his last five outings, giving up just two earned runs in 33 innings for a 0.45 ERA. His late signing in the offseason and subsequent injury list stint seem to have only fueled his determination to return to top form.
Prior to this no-hitter, Snell’s career-high for innings pitched was 7.2, and he had only reached the seventh inning four times in his career before Friday. This achievement is the third no-hitter in the major leagues this season, with Snell joining Ronel Blanco and Dylan Cease in this exclusive club. The 114 pitches it took him to complete this game tied for the second-most in his career, showing his endurance and dedication on the mound. While his current contract with the San Francisco Giants is only for two years and $62 million, he has the option to opt out after this season – a decision he may consider if he continues to pitch at this extraordinary level.
Despite his impressive resume as a two-time Cy Young Award winner and MLB’s all-time leader in K/9 with 11.1 strikeouts per nine innings, Snell’s contract with the Giants is considered relatively low due to his past struggles with consistency and his age. However, his recent resurgence on the field is proving that he is deserving of the accolades he has received in the past, and he is eager to show that his Cy Young Awards are not a fluke. With his exceptional performance in the no-hitter and his determination to continue pitching at a high level, Snell’s future in the MLB looks promising, and he could be on his way to further solidifying his status as one of the top pitchers in the league.
The significance of Snell’s no-hitter goes beyond just his personal achievements, as it marks the 18th in Giants history and adds to the excitement of the 2023 MLB season. With only three no-hitters so far this year, including Blanco and Cease’s performances, Snell’s dominance on the mound adds to the excitement and drama of America’s favorite pastime. His performance on Friday night not only showcases his talent and skill but also serves as a reminder of the magic and unpredictability of baseball, keeping fans on the edge of their seats and inspiring future generations of players to strive for greatness on the field. As Snell continues to make history and defy expectations, he is writing a new chapter in the legacy of the sport and solidifying his own place among baseball’s elite pitchers.
In the wake of his incredible no-hitter, Snell’s star continues to rise as he captures the attention and admiration of fans, teammates, and opponents alike. His determination to overcome setbacks and challenges, his unwavering commitment to excellence on the field, and his passion for the game make him a role model for aspiring players and a shining example of perseverance and dedication. As he embarks on the next phase of his career with the Giants, Snell’s no-hitter serves as a testament to his talent, his work ethic, and his indomitable spirit, proving that he is a force to be reckoned with in the world of baseball. Whether he opts out of his current contract or continues to pitch for the Giants, Snell’s legacy as a no-hitter pitcher and a Cy Young Award winner will endure, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and inspiring countless others to follow in his footsteps.
