Ronel Blanco, a Houston Astros pitcher, threw the 17th no-hitter in franchise history during his first start of the 2024 season. This achievement was made possible due to injuries to other starters, with Blanco only needing 105 pitches to complete the feat. It is the first no-hitter for the Astros since Framber Valdez’s in August 2023 and the earliest in MLB history. Blanco, who signed for $5,000 as a 22-year-old from the Dominican Republic, has shown promise despite limited experience in the major leagues.
The Astros, coming off a four-game sweep by the New York Yankees, were in need of a strong performance to reignite their team spirit. Blanco, at 30 years old, delivered this with his no-hitter in just his eighth start in the majors. His exceptional command and efficient pitching kept the Astros’ bullpen on the sidelines until the ninth inning, only walking one batter throughout the game. Blanco’s defense also played a crucial role in preserving the no-hitter in the eighth and ninth innings, showcasing an all-around impressive team effort.
Blanco’s no-hit performance was complemented by the Astros’ offense, which crushed five home runs in the game. Kyle Tucker and Yainer Diaz each hit two home runs, while Jeremy Peña ended a long home run drought with a solo shot. This offensive outburst, combined with Blanco’s dominant pitching, led the team to a resounding victory. Manager Joe Espada also made history by recording his first win on a no-hitter, adding to the significance of the game for the Astros organization.
While Blanco’s meteoric rise to success may have been unexpected, his talent and determination have propelled him to this historic milestone. With a modest season behind him, Blanco’s no-hitter demonstrates his potential as a key player for the Astros moving forward. The team’s faith in Blanco has paid off, providing a much-needed boost after a challenging series against the Yankees. Blanco’s achievement serves as a reminder of the unpredictable and exciting nature of baseball, showcasing the impact that individual performances can have on a team’s success. As Blanco continues to hone his skills and build on this accomplishment, the Astros look poised to benefit from his contributions in the seasons to come.
