Bowden Francis had a standout performance for the Toronto Blue Jays, striking out a career-high 12 batters in a 3-1 victory against the Los Angeles Angels. He carried a no-hitter into the ninth inning before Taylor Ward hit a solo homer. Despite missing out on the no-hitter, Francis received a standing ovation from the crowd of 34,011 when he left the game. Chad Green then came in and secured the save for the Blue Jays.
The 28-year-old pitcher has been on a hot streak, winning his third consecutive game and being named the American League Player of the Week recently. He previously pitched a stellar game against the Angels on Aug. 12. The last no-hitter in Blue Jays history was thrown by Dave Stieb in 1990.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. contributed to the Blue Jays’ win with his 27th home run of the season. On the Angels’ side, Carson Fulmer pitched six innings, allowing two runs and striking out eight.
Injury updates for the Angels include 1B Nolan Schanuel sitting out due to a sore back and OF Mickey Moniak missing games after being hit by a pitch. The Blue Jays are set to start RHP Kevin Gausman against Angels LHP Tyler Anderson in the series finale.
(Source: AP MLB)