Corey Kluber adds his name to the list of pitchers who've thrown a no-hitter this season. After two tough years battling injuries, the Yankees signed him in the hopes that he could get back to his old self. He did exactly that this Wednesday, pitching a masterpiece in a 2-0 win against the Rangers before 31,689 fans at Globe Life Field.
In the year of the no-hitter, add Corey Kluber to the list. After struggles with injuries for the past two seasons, the Yankees signed Kluber in hopes he would be able to rediscover his best form. Kluber delivered this Wednesday in front of 31,689 fans at Globe Life Field, where he defeated the Rangers, 2-0.
The game started fast with Kluber striking out the first two batters and retiring seven straight, until he gave Charlie Culberson a walk in the third inning.
Aside from Culberson, nobody reached base during Kluber's 101-pitch performance, marking the first no-hitter of his career. He struck out nine players and barely went over the minimum number of batters. Later, Kluber told reporters that the idea of a no-hitter didn't even cross his mind until after the sixth inning had passed.
Kluber explained that having a few runs on the board by the sixth inning gave him the confidence and 'cushion' he needed to keep hitting the strike zone.
It was essentially a perfect game, save for that one walk to Culberson on four pitches. Kluber's only regret was giving up that free pass, as it was the only thing preventing a truly perfect game.
Aaron Boone mentioned that despite the two-run lead the Yankees established in the sixth, the game felt like it was on the line until the final play.
Kluber finished the job in the ninth when Culberson hit a ground ball to second. While Aroldis Chapman was ready in the bullpen just in case, the Yankees opted to use pinch-hitter David Dahl to replace Culberson.
Dahl hit a fly ball that was caught by Wade near the right-field line. Meanwhile, the Yankees were shorthanded in the outfield after Ryan LaMarre suffered a hamstring injury. Following a strikeout by Dahl, Wade dealt with another fly ball near the left-field line.
The game reached its climax with Willie Calhoun hitting a grounder to the right of second base. Gleyber Torres scooped it up and fired a clean throw to Luke Voit at first to secure the final out.