Just take a moment to appreciate what Lucas Giolito has done since the end of the 2018 season. Literally, one of, if not the worst pitcher in the American League, to a bonafide ace for the White Sox and it seemed it would only be a matter of when not if the righty would throw a no-hitter.
That time arrived Tuesday night at Guaranteed Rate Field, where Giolito pitched the 19th no-hitter in White Sox history in a dazzling 13-strikeout performance against the Pirates.
Not only were the 13 strikeouts the most in a White Sox no-hitter, but Giolito also generated 30 whiffs, which are the most in a no-no since Nolan Ryan’s 31 swings-and-misses in 1990.
Obviously Giolito’s performance against the Pirates was dominant, but here’s how truly unique his no-hitter was.
Not just overpowering, but efficient as well. Something we’ve never seen in a no-hitter before.
And here are some other fun stats. Remember, Giolito also struck out 13 in his last start before the no-hitter.
And on that 27th out? The 102mph line drive caught by Adam Engel had an expected batting average of .850!
Erik Gonzalez was also the only player to reach base against Giolito, drawing a four-pitch walk to leadoff the fourth inning. Entering Tuesday’s game, Gonzalez had zero walks in the 18 games he played so far this season.
Congratulations to Lucas, really one of the best guys to root for in all Chicago sports.
