SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — After 50 years and 8,020 games, the San Diego Padres' anniversary season celebrates another incredible milestone — though not one teams seek to accomplish by any means.
Thursday night's win over the Pittsburgh Pirates drew applause by fans, but was highlighted by one unfortunate fact: The Padres set the MLB record for longest drought without ever throwing no-hitter.
The Friars became the only team without a no-hitter on June 1, 2012, New York Mets pitcher Johan Santana threw the team’s first no-hitter, leaving San Diego as the lone team vying for a no-no.
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The Padres have come close on numerous occasions, pitching 30 one-hit games since the franchise began on April 8, 1969.
The last one-hit game came on May 15, 2018, when the Padres beat the Colorado Rockies at Petco Park. The no-no was broken up when Trevor Story knocked a one-out single in the eighth inning off pitcher Jordan Lyles.
Thankfully, there is a silver lining. The Padres have not gone the longest without a no-hitter in general. That drought belongs to the Philadelphia Phillies, who have gone 8,945 games between no-hitters.
In the team's 50th year, there remains hope. Rookie pitcher Chris Paddack has flashed his ability to dominate opposing lineups and starters Joey Lucchesi and Matt Strahm also spark some optimism.
Point being, you never know when great feats will strike and who will bring them home.
