Nolan Ryan's Fifth No-Hitter vs Mets
The 2017 Astros won their first World Series championship, led by AL MVP Jose Altuve and a record-setting offense.
The 2017 Houston Astros season was the 56th season for the Major League Baseball (MLB) franchise located in Houston, Texas, their 53rd as the Astros, fifth in both the American League (AL) and AL West division, and 18th at Minute Maid Park.
- Opponent
- Los Angeles Dodgers
- Venue
- Astrodome
- Date
- September 26, 1981
Lore & Background
The Astros clinched the AL West on September 17 with a 7–1 victory over Seattle, for their first AL West division title, eighth division title overall, and 11th postseason qualification. They defeated the Boston Red Sox in the ALDS in four games, then the New York Yankees in seven games in the ALCS for their first AL pennant. The season culminated with the first World Series championship in franchise history, winning in seven games over the Los Angeles Dodgers.
In Their Own Story
The humid air inside Shea Stadium hung heavy with anticipation as Nolan Ryan stepped onto the mound for the ninth inning. The crowd, usually raucous and confident, fell into an uneasy silence, aware that history was unfolding before their eyes. Ryan wound up, his arm snapping forward with a speed that seemed to defy physics, and delivered a blistering fastball that sailed past the batter's bat. As the final out was recorded, the roar of the crowd was not one of celebration for a win, but of stunned respect for a pitcher who had just rewritten the record books.
Reader's Guide
The 2017 Astros featured the highest-scoring offense in the major leagues (896 runs), the highest batting average (.282), on-base percentage (.346), and slugging percentage (.478). AL batting champion Jose Altuve (.346) won AL MVP, Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year, and Associated Press Male Athlete of the Year. The season was later marred by a sign stealing scandal that led to backlash, loss of draft picks, a record fine from MLB, and dismissal of employees linked to the scandal.
Did You Know?
- Dallas Keuchel made his third consecutive Opening Day start on April 3, leading the Astros to a 3–0 win over the Seattle Mariners.
- The Astros sent six players to the 88th All-Star Game: Jose Altuve, George Springer, Carlos Correa, Dallas Keuchel, Lance McCullers Jr., and Chris Devenski.
- Justin Verlander was acquired near the end of August and won his first five starts; he was named ALCS MVP after going 2–0 with a 0.56 ERA and 21 strikeouts.
- George Springer tied a World Series record with five home runs and was named World Series MVP.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Nolan Ryan throw his fifth career no-hitter against the New York Mets?
This historic pitching performance occurred on September 26, 1981. It stands as a defining date in both Astros and baseball history.
Where was this legendary game played?
The match took place at Shea Stadium in New York City. Fans witnessed the event live before a packed crowd at that iconic venue.
Why is this specific no-hitter considered unique in MLB history?
It remains the only fifth no-hitter ever thrown by any pitcher in Major League Baseball history. No other player has matched this specific milestone during their career.
What was the final outcome of this historic pitching duel?
The Houston Astros defeated their opponents without surrendering a single base hit. Ryan completed all nine innings to secure the victory for his team.
How did this performance impact Nolan Ryan’s legacy with the Houston Astros?
This game marked the pinnacle of Ryan's durability and speed on the mound during that era. It established him as an all-time great for the Houston organization.
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