So Close, Dustin!

The Toronto Blue Jays have had more than their share of almost no hitters. On that list include Halladay vs. the Tigers in 1998. Jim Clancy’s near perfecto in Minnesota; and of course the consecutive “lost-it-on-the-last-out” starts in which Dave Stieb came to the doorstep of history, but was rejected in outstanding attempts. You can now inscribe another name onto that list. Dustin McGowan, earlier this afternoon, carried a no-no into the 9th before Jeff Baker hacked his way on to break many fans’ hearts. No hitters are stupendously tough to come by these days and for young Dustin, he was all so close!

It had been a game of dominance for McGowan, inching, out by out, closer to history before the magic was temporarily lost on that first batter in the 9th inning. By the 7th, the nice getaway day crowd applauded for every strike. They audibly cheered on the 25 year old righty as he cruised his way through the game, only to run into the bump just 3 outs away from a no hitter. Then, Dustin was encouraged by an inevitable standing ovation, a reminder that even though the hit was registered, his performance was exceptionally fabulous.

“I felt good...you give Baker the credit for putting a good swing on it...” remarked McGowan who did still earn the 1st shutout and complete game of what looks to be a promising career. If it’s any help, Dustin, you hurled only the 17th one hitter in Blue Jay history and that’s one heck of an accomplishment! What a show the phenom put on! It was more than enough to keep everyone happy. Overall, and I mean every aspect of the game, power, pitching, defense...was present this afternoon, in what was a magnificent game!

Somewhat overlooked, Frank Thomas sent into orbit the 499th majestic round tripper of this career. That’s a lot of home runs! Perhaps he’s not getting the publicity all other 499er’s got in the past, but for a cool veteran guy like the Big Hurt, it might be better to not be over-pressured. You can bet that 500 will be a really loud smash and Frankie will be assured a ticket to Cooperstown.

And how ‘bout V-Dub? Isn’t he starting to sock ‘em too?! I think Wells still needs more plate discipline but it’s never too late to help your team. This team is at .500, the table is set for the next 18/21 to be played away from home. An immediate 10 game road trip is on the schedule. Sounds tough, I know. But look at what momentum can do! Look at what happened Friday night in the 10th which really straightened out the path for Saturday and Sunday! The time is now to get it rolling! Let’s go get ‘em, boys!

-D