By: Logan Hill
John Means just did something that hasn’t been done in more than 50 years.
The 28-year old lefty pitched a complete game No-Hitter today in the Baltimore Orioles’ 6-0 victory over the Seattle Mariners, becoming the first Orioles’ Pitcher to throw an individual No-Hitter since Jim Palmer did it back in 1969. He recorded 12 total strikeouts and finished with just 113 pitches thrown, averaging out to about 12.5 pitches per inning, showing both his dominance and efficiency.
Calling it just a No-Hitter however, may not do it enough justice; Means was one wild pitch on a dropped third strike away from throwing a Perfect Game. It was yet another great performance from Baltimore’s ace, and capped off a six game road trip in which the Orioles went 4-2 overall.
Following his first All-Star selection as a rookie back in 2019, Means has continued his dominant run so far in 2021. Through his first seven starts this season, Means has collected four wins and has an earned run average of 1.37, good for third in the MLB. He has vaulted himself into the conversation of best pitchers in baseball with his play so far, if he wasn’t already there. Even with Baltimore struggling through another season of low expectations, Means has been the brightest of bright spots.
Means’ No-Hitter was the tenth in Orioles’ franchise history, and the first since 1991. Just the latest in a run of strong performances, his standout day moves the Birds to 15-16 on the year, with a Mother’s day weekend series against the AL East-leading Boston Red Sox looming. More importantly, it has given Baltimore fans something to be excited about, while the team continues to struggle through a rebuild. John Means Business, simple as that.
Topp of the Hill 