Roy Halladay Pitches Playoff No Hitter
On Wednesday, Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Roy Halladay blanked the Cincinnati Reds 4-0 while keeping them hitless in the first game of the 2010 Major League Baseball playoffs.
Halladay’s nearly perfect performance was just the second no-hitter pitched in a Major League Baseball post-season series, and the first no-hitter since 1956 when Yankees starter, Don Larsen, hurled a perfect game during the World Series, defeating the Brooklyn Dodgers.
The last out came on Brandon Phillips’ swinging bunt dribbler at the plate that catcher Carlos Ruiz quickly snatched and tossed to the first baseman, ending the game.
Ruiz, who made the play from his knees, leaped up and raced to the mound embracing Halladay. All of the other Philadelphia players joined in the celebration while Citizens Bank Park erupted with cheering.
Halladay’s pitching gem was his first post-season starting assignment after achieving 169 wins over 13 seasons. The only batter to reach base was Cincinnati’s Jay Bruce who was walked during the fifth inning.
Known by his nickname “Doc”, Halladay’s regular season record of 21-10 included a perfect game in May while defeating the Florida Marlins. It was just the 20th perfect game ever thrown in Major League Baseball.
Phillies bench boss Charlie Manuel suggested it was Halladay’s mix of pitch selections that made him impossible to hit.
Halladay also proved handy with his bat, knocking in the second run of the game with a single to left joining the Phillies’ three-run assault in the 2nd inning.
Cinci’s starter, Edinson Volquez, was sent to the showers when Shane Victorino hit a two-run single after Halladay’s RBI hit.
On Friday the Reds will be seeking revenge when they once again take the field in Philadelphia for game 2 of the series.
