Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Cleveland Rookie Parker Messick Nearly Achieves No-Hitter

4/17/2026

25 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

On April 16, 2026, Cleveland rookie Parker Messick pitched eight innings near a no-hitter against the Baltimore Orioles, striking out nine and allowing one hit.
Cleveland manager Stephen Vogt handed the ball to closer Cade Smith, who struggled but secured the win.
Messick's outing made him the fourth Cleveland pitcher to lose a no-hitter in the ninth inning since Len Barker's 1981 perfect game.

History

Historical Context

Len Barker pitched a perfect game for the Cleveland Indians against the Toronto Blue Jays on May 15, 1981, marking only the 10th perfect game in MLB history. This achievement highlighted the rarity of such feats, a challenge echoed by Parker Messick's near no-hitter in 2026, where he became the fourth Cleveland pitcher to lose a no-hitter in the ninth inning, underscoring the ongoing pursuit of pitching excellence.

1 of 2

Story summary

On April 16, 2026, Cleveland rookie Parker Messick pitched eight innings near a no-hitter against the Baltimore Orioles, striking out nine and allowing one hit.
Cleveland manager Stephen Vogt handed the ball to closer Cade Smith, who struggled but secured the win.
Messick's outing made him the fourth Cleveland pitcher to lose a no-hitter in the ninth inning since Len Barker's 1981 perfect game.

1 / 2