UPDATE: In a thrilling game that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Slade Cecconi came within two outs of throwing a no-hitter as the Cleveland Guardians triumphed over the Kansas City Royals with a score of 10-2 on September 25, 2023. This victory not only marks Cleveland’s fourth consecutive win but also propels them ahead of Kansas City in the AL wild-card race.
Cecconi (6-6) was six outs away from achieving the first no-hitter in Major League Baseball this season and the Guardians’ first since Len Barker’s perfect game back in 1981. The excitement built until the eighth inning when Kansas City’s Michael Massey broke the silence with a single on Cecconi’s 95th pitch, a 2-1 fastball that found its way into left-center field.
The crowd at Progressive Field erupted into applause, recognizing Cecconi’s near-historic achievement. Following the hit, he quickly regained momentum, inducing a double play from Carter Jensen, but the Royals managed to score a pair of runs in the ninth inning.
The Guardians showcased an explosive offense, setting season highs with 16 hits and seven doubles. Key contributions came from Kyle Manzardo, Daniel Schneemann, and Nolan Jones, each driving in two RBIs. The team dominated the fourth inning, scoring six runs and opening up an 8-0 lead against Royals pitcher Ryan Bergert (2-2).
Meanwhile, Kansas City’s All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. missed his third consecutive game due to back spasms. Manager Matt Quatraro indicated that Witt had engaged in light running and fielding before the game, raising hopes for his return to the lineup soon.
The Guardians now hold a record of 73-70 and have moved past the Royals, who sit at 73-71, in the competitive AL Central. With only a few games left in the season, Cleveland is just 2.5 games behind Seattle for the third and final wild card spot.
As the Guardians push for a playoff berth, all eyes will be on them in the upcoming matchups. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if Cecconi can replicate his near-no-hitter performance and if Witt will return to help bolster the Royals’ lineup. Stay tuned for the latest on this developing story!
