In Arlington, Texas, Kevin Gausman of the Toronto Blue Jays left the field after pitching five hitless innings and announced it was his final pitch. Blue Jays manager John Schneider cautiously confirmed to Gausman that he was on the verge of a no-hitter, but it was fellow starter Chris Bassitt who outright told him. Despite experiencing back spasms before the game, Gausman managed to keep the Texas Rangers hitless in the Blue Jays’ 4-0 win. Gausman admitted surprise at achieving a no-hitter given his physical discomfort.

Throughout his 30th start of the season, Gausman retired 15 of the 16 batters he faced. He struck out six hitters and threw 38 of 58 pitches for strikes. Gausman, now with a 13-11 record, decided to exit the game after the fifth inning despite the no-hitter, showing concern for his physical well-being and wanting to end the season on a healthy note.

By making his 30th start with the Blue Jays, Gausman joined elite company alongside R.A. Dickie and Mark Buehrle. He also became the second Toronto pitcher, following Dave Stieb, to achieve at least 150 strikeouts in three consecutive seasons. Despite his back issues during the game, Gausman’s decision to exit was respected by the Blue Jays coaching staff as a precautionary measure.

Gausman relinquished his chance for a no-hitter to prioritize his health, allowing the Blue Jays bullpen to complete the two-hitter, with Josh Smith’s hit in the seventh inning ending the no-hit bid. Gausman, now with 101 career wins, emphasized that preserving his physical condition was paramount and that he is eager to make his final start of the season against Boston at home. Despite the back problem, both Gausman and his manager are optimistic about his health going forward.