Seattle Sports Year in Review: Top 10 Highlights of 2015
By Paul Taylor
Aug 12, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners pitcher Hisashi Iwakuma (18, center) celebrates with his teammates following the final out of his no-hit, 3-0 victory against the Baltimore Orioles at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
4) Hisashi Iwakuma’s no-hitter
As usual, Felix Hernandez was the brightest star among the Seattle Mariners starting five during the 2015 season. However, for one day at least, Hisashi Iwakuma had his name mentioned in the same breath as his teammate.
That day came on August 12th, as Iwakuma became just the fifth pitcher in franchise history to toss a no-hitter. He also became just the second Japanese pitcher in MLB history to throw a no-no.
The outing against the Baltimore Orioles was the first complete game of the 34-year old’s career. He ended the day with seven strikouts and just three walks, on 116 pitches:
The Mariners received an unexpected bonus this offseason, when Iwakuma’s deal with the Dodgers fell through, meaning he will return to Seattle in 2016. While no one is expecting any more no-hitters, he will once again play a pivotal role in the pitching rotation.
Next: Where are all the doubters now?