The Chicago Cubs made history on Wednesday night at Wrigley Field as Shota Imanaga and the team’s relievers combined to no-hit the Pittsburgh Pirates in a dominant 12-0 victory. The Cubs’ last no-hitter at Wrigley Field dates back to 1972, making this achievement even more special for the team and their fans.
Imanaga, a 31-year-old left-hander in his first season with the Cubs after pitching in Japan for eight seasons, was in top form as he threw seven hitless innings, striking out seven and walking two. Despite his impressive performance, Cubs manager Craig Counsell made the tough decision to remove him from the game after 95 pitches to prioritize his health.
Nate Pearson and rookie Porter Hodge followed Imanaga’s stellar outing with perfect innings of their own, completing the no-hitter and securing a memorable win for the Cubs. This was a historic moment for the team, as it marked the first combined no-hitter in MLB history to have a rookie start and finish the game.
Imanaga’s dedication to his craft and his trust in catcher Miguel Amaya’s game-calling were key factors in his success on the mound. The left-hander credited Amaya for his preparation and ability to study the hitters, allowing them to be in sync throughout the game.
The Cubs’ victory was a team effort, with standout performances from players like Nico Hoerner, Pete Crow-Armstrong, and Dansby Swanson, who each contributed significantly to the team’s 17 hits on the night. Swanson, in particular, stood out for his leadership and consistency, insisting on staying in the game despite the blowout score.
The Cubs’ no-hitter was not without its challenges, as third baseman Isaac Paredes committed three errors in the game, including a crucial throwing error in the second play of the game. However, the team rallied behind Imanaga’s strong pitching performance and overcame the defensive miscues to secure the historic win.
Chicago’s previous no-hitter came in 2021 at Dodger Stadium, making this achievement at Wrigley Field even more special for the team and their fans. The Cubs ended a streak of 4,147 regular and postseason games at Wrigley Field without a no-hitter, marking a significant milestone in the team’s history.
The victory over the Pirates was not only a testament to the Cubs’ pitching staff but also their offensive prowess, as they scored 12 runs on 17 hits to secure the decisive win. Players like Seiya Suzuki, Cody Bellinger, and Happ delivered key hits throughout the game, showcasing the team’s depth and talent on both sides of the ball.
Overall, the Cubs’ no-hitter against the Pirates was a momentous occasion for the team and their fans, highlighting the talent and resilience of the players on the field. With strong performances from Shota Imanaga, the relievers, and the offense, the Cubs demonstrated their ability to compete at the highest level and make history in the process.