It was the first no-hitter since the joint no-hitter last Labor Day weekend, and the first no-hitter through all 9 innings since Roy Halladay pitched a perfect game against the Reds in the 2010 playoffs. Hamels also managed to out hit the Cubs by himself, with a double in the game.
It's no secret that Hamels has been on the trade block this season. Over his previous two performances, Hamels struggled and people wondered whether they would be able to get a decent trade package in return. After today's start, the Phillies should be able to get a few good prospects for Hamels. It will be sad to see him go, after so many good memories over the years, but this would make for an incredible last game if Hamels is traded soon.
Carlos Ruiz had his share of history being made today as well. He now joins Jason Varitek and Ray Schalk (thanks @jrfinger for the fact) as the only catchers to catch 4 different no-hitters. Ruiz has proven that he is an excellent game manager behind the plate, so it's great to see that future generations will be able to easily see that fact.
The Phillies' offense was overshadowed by Hamels' performance, but they had a solid outing today. Ryan Howard hit a three run homer with two outs in the third inning, his 17th of the year. Turns out that those three runs would be all that was needed, but the offense kept it going in the eighth inning, scoring two more runs. The Phils recorded eleven hits on the day.
The defense was great in backing up Hamels, especially Odubel Herrera. With one out in the bottom of the 8th, David Ross hit what looked like a potential double to the left-center warning track. However, Herrera was able to track it down and keep the no-no in tact. Finally, with just one strike to go, Kris Bryant hit another ball straight to center, which was caught by a diving Herrera to finish the game.
Congrats to Cole Hamels on the no-hitter and adding to his legacy in Philly.
By: Dan Goggin
Follow us on twitter @BroadStBeat