Major League Baseball has such a glorious history, it is noteworthy that there are still things that have not been done yet.
Another thing dropped off the list on Wednesday.
Houston Astros pitchers Luis Garcia and Phil Matton each played an impressive game against the Texas Rangers – nine pitches and three strikeouts.
This is the first time in MLB history that two nine-pitch, three-strikeout innings have been played by the same team or each team against each other, according to Astros and Rangers officials.
“It sounds great, because it’s history,” Garcia added via MLB.com. “I’m so happy for myself and Phil. I don’t know what to say. I’m just happy.”
Cherry on top? Houston pulled off a 9-2 victory. Martin Maldonado was given a helping hand in the first innings by a two-run double and in the fourth innings by Homer.
“To be a part of it, make history anytime … I’m glad I was caught in that situation,” he said.
Astros manager Dusty Baker added: “We haven’t had that first inning in a long time. Some records, the same guys we beat them back-to-back with nine pitches … so it was a good day for us.”
Garcia and Matton were the eighth and ninth pitchers in the history of the Astros to play incomparably. Will Harris last did this against the Lost Angels Angels in 2019, and Brandon Beck against the Milwaukee Brewers in 2004.
“It’s great. There’s nothing like you going out here every day and trying to do that. Of course, you’re trying to hit every hitter in front of you,” Matton said. “I’m still trying to wrap my head around it. Great experience.”
Garcia played six innings and conceded two runs – one earned – four hits and nine hits. Matton relaxed him and his lone play knocked out all three batsmen.
