Rookie Pitcher Parker Messick's Near No-Hitter: A Promising Performance for the Cleveland Guardians
Cleveland Guardians rookie pitcher Parker Messick's no-hitter bid was spoiled by Baltimore Orioles outfielder Leody Taveras, who hit a single in the ninth inning. Despite carrying the no-hitter through eight innings with two walks and nine strikeouts, Messick allowed hits to Taveras and Blaze Alexander before being replaced by relief pitcher Cade Smith, who gave up two earned runs to the Orioles.
Messick's near no-hitter would have been the first for the Cleveland organization since Len Barker's perfect game in 1981. The Guardians have the longest current gap between no-hitters in the majors. Previous close calls include Carlos Carrasco's 8 2/3 inning effort in 2015 and Gavin Williams' 8 1/3 inning no-hit bid in 2024.
In his 11th career start, Messick showed promise as a young pitcher, having been drafted in 2022 and making his big league debut last year. He entered the game with a solid record and ERA, supported by the Guardians' offense with runs from Jose Ramirez and Steven Kwan.
Despite the disappointment of losing the no-hitter, Messick's performance showcased his potential as a rising star in the league. The Guardians will look to build on this outing as they continue their season.