Astros’ Christian Vázquez catches second no-hitter in World Series history
Christian Vázquez was part of something special on Wednesday night. He became the second catcher to ever catch a no-hitter during a game during the World Series.
Astros pitchers Cristian Javier, Bryan Abreu, Rafael Montero and Ryan Pressly combined for the no-hitter in the 5-0 win over the Phillies from Citizens Bank Park.
Vázquez hasn’t had many opportunities to play since being traded by the Red Sox at the trade deadline. His start on Wednesday night was only his second start this postseason with Houston.
“We’ve not finished the job yet, but this is very, very special for us,” Vázquez told reporters in Philadelphia. “And when we get old we’re going to remember this.”
Vázquez joins Yankees legend Yogi Berra as the only two players to catch a no-hitter in the Fall Classic. Berra caught Don Larsen’s perfect game back in 1956.
Javier was brilliant all night going six outstanding innings. He struck out nine batters and walked two. The righty wasn’t able to go the distance because his pitch count was already at 97 after six innings.
“Yeah, always he is on the mound we’re expecting a great fastball and great slider,” Vázquez told reporters. “He was very, very electric tonight with the fastball. I think that’s the way he is and we always expecting that. And I think that’s the best fastball right now in baseball.”
Following the game, Javier spoke highly of Vázquez and how he helped him through the game.
“He stayed on top of me, continued to motivate me throughout the game and gave me really good, positive energy,” Javier said through an interpreter. “I think that’s one of the reasons why we got the result we did today.”
Vázquez has already won a World Series with the Red Sox and is looking for his second with Houston. The veteran catcher can also now add the no-hitter he caught in the World Series to his résumé.
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