Alimber Santa Shines in Major League Debut with Houston Astros’ No-Hitter

Making a Major League debut is challenging, but doing so during a no-hitter is another level of pressure. Houston Astros pitcher Alimber Santa made his Major League debut in this scenario during the Astros’ 9-0 victory over the Texas Rangers on Monday night at Globe Life Field.

Tatsuya Imai opened with six no-hit innings, followed by reliever Steven Okert who pitched one inning. Manager Joe Espada then called on Santa to finish the game. Santa, only 23 years old, delivered two flawless innings, concluding the game by striking out Brandon Nimmo for his first Major League strikeout and completing the combined no-hitter. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, Santa became the first pitcher since 1900 to participate in a no-hitter during his debut.

In the bullpen, Santa understood the task at hand. He stated through a translator, “Yeah, there was some adrenaline. I was aware of the no-hitter, but I was just trying to calm myself down from the bullpen.”

Espada expressed his pride in Santa’s performance, noting, “I think it’s a big night for him and his family. So proud of him. I’ve seen this kid for years, and just to have this moment is huge for the organization and for him.”

Imai initially walked three batters but managed to settle down and escape the jam. Okert also allowed a walk during his inning.

This marks the Astros’ 17th regular-season no-hitter, with 18 in total including the postseason. They recently had a combined no-hitter against the Philadelphia Phillies in the 2022 World Series.

The last Major League no-hitter occurred on September 4, 2024, when Shota Imanaga and two Chicago Cubs relievers succeeded in a 12-0 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates. A complete-game no-hitter has not been thrown since August 2, 2024, by Blake Snell for the San Francisco Giants against the Cincinnati Reds.

Astros pitchers Alimber Santa, Tatsuya Imai, and Steven Okert, along with catcher Christian Vázquez, celebrated their achievement following the 9-0 victory.

Previously, Ronel Blanco threw a no-hitter for the Astros in a 10-0 win against the Toronto Blue Jays on April 1, 2024. This victory also marked Espada’s first win as manager. The Astros have now been part of three of the past seven and five of the last 11 Major League no-hitters.

The Astros, currently with a record of 24-31, aim to continue their momentum in the series against the Rangers, who have a 24-29 record. They next face each other on Tuesday at 8:05 p.m. ET.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.