Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Bowden Francis had his second near miss at baseball immortality in just four starts, losing a no-hit bid in a heartbreaking fashion against the New York Mets. Francis showcased his mettle with a masterful performance, dominating the Mets' lineup over eight innings without surrendering a hit. However, his bid for a no-hitter was shattered with a leadoff home run in the ninth inning by none other than Mets' shortstop Francisco Lindor.
The 27-year-old Francis, who retired the side on just six pitches in the eighth inning, had fans on the edge of their seats. With each inning, the anticipation grew, and by the ninth, a historic moment seemed in the making. Yet, Lindor's homer not only ended Francis's dream but also lifted the Mets, eventually securing a 6-2 victory. This marked the largest gap by a team being no-hit through eight innings since the 1990 White Sox against the Yankees.
Francis’s recent run of form has been nothing short of spectacular. In his last four starts, he has had two no-hit bids cut short in the ninth inning, with his earlier attempt spoiled by a home run from Taylor Ward of the Los Angeles Angels just eighteen days ago. Across his last six outings, Francis has allowed zero or just one hit in four of those games, each lasting at least seven innings. In total, he's conceded a mere 12 hits over his last 43 innings pitched. Such consistency has thrust him into the spotlight as a pitcher to watch closely in the coming games.
The last no-hitter for the Blue Jays feels like a distant memory, achieved by Dave Stieb on September 2, 1990. It's been over three decades since Toronto fans celebrated such a milestone, and many thought Francis might end that long drought. His recent performance sure suggests he might be on the brink of something special.
Reflecting on the Mets' victory, it was a crucial win that helped them maintain their grip on the third and final National League wild-card spot. The resiliency shown by the Mets is comparable to the grit exhibited by Francis on the mound. While he allowed only one strikeout in his eight innings against the Mets, his ability to keep hitters off-balance speaks volumes about his evolving prowess and command.
This near miss could have been the fifth no-hitter of the 2024 MLB season. Just a week prior to Francis's attempt, Shota Imanaga and two Chicago Cubs relievers combined to no-hit the Pittsburgh Pirates. Such performances indicate that pitching excellence is having a resurgence in the league this year.
Bowden Francis's stellar outings, characterized by their electric intensity and sharp precision, have captivated baseball enthusiasts. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on him to see if he can finally cross that elusive no-hit threshold.