Cincinnati Reds acting-manager all praise for Homer Bailey – MLB News
The Cincinnati Reds acting manager Chris Speier on Friday, September 28, expressed his happiness over Homer Bailey’s no-hitter game, bringing a wonderful 1-0 win for the club against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Becoming the 15th Reds pitcher to achieve this milestone, Bailey was first starter to do it since 1988 when Tom Browning did it against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Also, this was the first no-hitter game for the Pirates since 1971 when they had to
face similar fate in the hands of Hall of Famer Bob Gibson of the St. Louis Cardinals.
What was reassuring for the Reds, though, is the fact that Bailey set the benchmark prior to the commencement of the National League Division Series. At a time when the club seemed to be struggling in September, this was morale-boosting.
That is what the acting manager referred to while talking to reporters after the Reds’ win. "He's always been a good thrower, but he's really learned how to pitch this season," Speier said. "You saw the evolution tonight."
While the game was thoroughly enjoyed by all and sundry, especially by the Reds management among others, it was catcher Ryan Hanigan who seemed to have the most thrilling moments in the game.
"It's very special because Homer and I have been there every step of the way," Hanigan said. "It's great for Homer, it's great for the organization and it's just great for the team because it's another special moment in what has been a very special season."
There have now been a total of seven no-hits this season with Bailey’s this win. Among them are that of Chicago White Sox’ Philip Humber, Los Angeles’ Jered Weaver, Johan Santana of the New York Mets, Matt Cain of the San Francisco Giants, and Seattle Mariners’
Felix Hernandez.
Bailey has now pitched over 200 innings this season – the first time he has done it in his six-year career. With this achievement, Bailey has now given the Reds’ rotation all the more reason to feel confident. And as postseason games near, the rivals will
have to be more cautious as far as the Reds’ rotation is concerned.
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