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.
Quick Facts
- Opponent
- Los Angeles Dodgers
- Venue
- Minute Maid Park
- Date
- 2017 season
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 beat 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. The season was later marred by a sign stealing scandal that led to backlash, loss of draft picks, a record fine, and dismissals of employees linked to the scandal.
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 Astros sent six players to the All-Star Game: Jose Altuve, George Springer, Carlos Correa, Dallas Keuchel, Lance McCullers Jr., and Chris Devenski. Justin Verlander, acquired at the trade deadline, won his first five starts and was named ALCS MVP.
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.
- First baseman Jeff Bagwell became the second inductee into the Baseball Hall of Fame as an Astro.
- George Springer tied a World Series record with five home runs and was named World Series MVP.
- Jose Altuve joined Jeff Bagwell as the second Astro to win the MVP, with Bagwell winning it in 1994.
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.
More in Iconic Matches & Moments
Elsewhere in Houston Astros
Spotted an error? Know more?
Reader corrections go straight into our review queue. Suggest an edit · How this site is sourced