Nolan Ryan's Fourth No-Hitter (May 1, 1991 vs Phillies)
The Ryan Express: seven no-hitters and counting.
Nolan Ryan threw seven no-hitters in his career, more than any other pitcher in MLB history. His fourth no-hitter was on June 11, 1990, against the Oakland Athletics. His seventh and final no-hitter was on May 1, 1991, against the Philadelphia Phillies.
Quick Facts
- Date
- May 1, 1991
- Opponent
- Philadelphia Phillies
- Venue
- Arlington Stadium, Arlington
- Pitcher age
- 44 Years Old
- Record significance
- Oldest pitcher to throw a no-hitter at the time (but not the first over 40)
- Outcome
- Rangers Victory
Lore & Background
Ryan is the all-time leader in no-hitters with seven, three more than any other pitcher. He is tied with Bob Feller for the most one-hitters, with 12. Ryan also pitched 18 two-hitters. Despite this, he never pitched a perfect game, nor did he ever win a Cy Young Award; both were largely attributed to his high walk rate.
Reader's Guide
Nolan Ryan pitched for the New York Mets from 1966 and 1968–1971. In five seasons with the Mets, 105 games and 74 starts, Ryan had a 29–38 record, with a 3.58 ERA, 1.39 WHIP, with 344 walks and 493 strikeouts in 511 innings.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Nolan Ryan throw his historic no-hitter with the Mets?
The game took place on May 1, 1991, at Veterans Stadium in Philadelphia against the Phillies. At 44 years old, Ryan became the oldest pitcher to ever record a no-hitter in Major League Baseball history.
Why is this performance unique in baseball records?
It was the first time any pitcher over the age of 40 achieved a no-hitter, defying typical expectations for veteran players. This feat highlighted Ryan's incredible longevity and sustained dominance on the mound throughout his career.
Was this Nolan Ryan’s fourth no-hitter as claimed by some sources?
No, this was actually his sixth and final no-hitter of his professional career. It is often confused with earlier milestones, but it remains the only one he accomplished while wearing a Mets uniform.
Which opponent did Ryan defeat to secure this victory?
He faced off against their division rivals, the Philadelphia Phillies, at their home field. Ryan retired all 27 batters to lead the New York Mets to a shutout win in this memorable matchup.
How did this game impact Nolan Ryan's legacy with the team?
The match solidified his status as a franchise legend during his tenure with New York. It serves as one of the most iconic pitching performances ever recorded during the transition from Shea Stadium to their later eras.
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