In a stunning display of pitching prowess, Blake Snell threw a no-hitter in his inaugural start for the San Francisco Giants following the trade deadline. This extraordinary performance was not just another game; it was a monumental moment, one of the most exhilarating and emphatic displays by a pitcher in the franchise’s rich history. Over the course of 141 years, the Giants have celebrated just 18 no-hitters, making this achievement even more remarkable.
From the legendary Carl Hubbell in 1929 to Juan Marichal in 1963, there was a long stretch during which the Giants did not witness a no-hitter. Throughout the trials of the Great Depression, the upheaval of World War II, and the transitions from coast to coast, the elusive no-hitter remained a cherished dream. Each of these no-hitters is a precious gift, with Snell’s achievement undoubtedly ranking among the most cherished in the pantheon of Giants history.
Just a few hours prior to his performance, there was a palpable uncertainty about Snell’s future. Rumors swirled that he might be traded to a team with a stronger postseason outlook, perhaps heading to New York, Baltimore, Cleveland, or even remaining in California with San Diego or Los Angeles. A trade could have meant joining a team poised for a World Series run, but it would also mean missing out on a defining moment with the Giants.
If Snell had been traded, his legacy with the Giants might have hinged on a singular moment: that unforgettable day when he struck out 15 Colorado Rockies. In 20 years, fans would reminisce about that performance, but only those at Oracle Park would truly understand the magic of that day. The potential trade could have erased the Blake Snell era with the Giants, fading into obscurity like Reggie Jackson’s time with the Baltimore Orioles or Dick Allen’s brief stint with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Instead, Snell solidified his place in Giants history. If you doubt that this is an exaggeration, consider the magnitude of what it means when a pitcher throws a no-hitter. He joins the revered ranks of the “Forever Giants.” Think of Chris Heston, who also accomplished this feat; if he asked you for a ride downtown, you would gladly oblige. When a pitcher achieves a no-hitter, he earns a permanent spot among the legends. So, Chris Heston, let me treat you to a drink or create a mixtape for you—just say the word.
The Significance of Timing and Unlikelihood
The significance of Snell’s no-hitter is magnified by its timing and the improbability of the event itself. Snell was uncertain about his status with the Giants as the trade deadline approached. While sports commentators speculated on his potential future with teams like the Yankees or the Orioles, Snell faced the human aspect of such changes. How would he be received? Would he fit into a new clubhouse? What would it mean for his family, especially with a 3-month-old baby at home?
The stress of such uncertainty is palpable. Snell had just begun to find his rhythm with the Giants, pitching better than ever, and he wanted to avoid the turmoil of a midseason trade. He had finally settled into a groove, and what better way to validate his place in San Francisco than with a spectacular performance?
Now, consider the rarity of a no-hitter. This game against the Cincinnati Reds marked the first time in Snell’s career that he pitched into the ninth inning. Prior to this, he had never completed a game, and no pitcher had started more games in MLB history without finishing eight innings. Comparatively, Giants pitchers who had experienced pitching into the eighth included Tyler Beede, Tyler Anderson, and Ty Blach, while Snell had never tasted this experience.
Moreover, Snell’s legacy risked being overshadowed by the infamous moment in Game 6 of the 2020 World Series when he was pulled with just 73 pitches in the sixth inning. He symbolized a new era of pitchers who were often removed from games early, an emblem of modern baseball’s evolving strategies. Last season, he was pulled with a no-hitter after seven innings, leading to the departure of his manager.
While we often speak of “five-and-dive” pitchers, Snell emerged as a “five-and-thrive” star. Now, he has a no-hitter to his name. Notably, several Cy Young winners have never achieved a no-hitter:
- Don Drysdale
- Steve Carlton
- Greg Maddux
- Roger Clemens
- CC Sabathia
- John Smoltz
- Barry Zito
- Jake Peavy
This partial list serves to remind us that greatness does not guarantee a no-hitter. Achievements in baseball are not handed out as participation trophies; they require a unique blend of luck, skill, opportunity, and flawless execution.
A Defining Moment
The no-hitter came just after a shutout performance by Logan Webb, coinciding with a season where the Giants’ front office faced scrutiny for their decision not to rebuild. The timing could turn out to be pivotal, especially if the Giants remain competitive. This moment could serve as a catalyst for the team, reinvigorating the clubhouse after their decision to stand pat at the trade deadline.
If the Giants falter in the coming games, this no-hitter may simply be a great memory. However, if they find success, it could be seen as the turning point in their season, perhaps narrated by a San Francisco-adjacent celebrity like Mike Patton in a future documentary detailing how the no-hitter sparked a revival.
The first inning of Snell’s game was nothing short of mesmerizing. He struck out the side on just 11 pitches, showcasing a level of dominance that felt almost surreal. A perfect game with 27 strikeouts seemed within reach, but he ultimately settled for an 11-strikeout no-hitter, marking the first shutout of his career. It was a moment of sheer declaration—he was back in his element, ready to continue his dominance.
The Future of the Giants
Will the Giants use this momentum to propel themselves forward? How might this performance impact their chances of retaining Snell beyond this season? The answers remain uncertain, but one thing is clear: a Giants pitcher achieved one of the most exciting milestones in baseball. Snell’s no-hitter may very well justify the decision to keep him around, not solely due to the Giants’ current postseason aspirations but because it serves as a vivid reminder of the excitement that baseball can offer—a stark contrast to the monotony of the past two seasons.
In conclusion, Blake Snell’s no-hitter stands as a testament to the unpredictable nature of baseball—a blend of luck, skill, and the thrill of the game. It’s a reminder that moments like these can ignite passion and excitement, capturing the essence of what makes baseball so enthralling. If you missed it, I highly recommend seeking out the highlights; it’s a thrilling reminder of the joy baseball can bring.
(Photo: Jason Mowry / Getty Images)
