Getty Image / Denis Poroy
The San Diego Padres earned a big win on Saturday after defeating the red hot Tampa Bay Lightning 2-0.
Blake Snell was on a tear throughout the contest, putting up 12 K’s, three walks, and just two hits in six scoreless innings.
However, it turns out his performance put him in elite company with some of the MLB’s greatest pitchers, per Sports Illustrated.
“Snell struck out every starter in the Rays’ lineup at least once, matching his accomplishment from June 11 against the Rockies. By striking out all nine opposing starters in consecutive starts, Snell became the fourth MLB pitcher in the expansion era (since 1961) to achieve that feat.”
According to ESPN Stats & Info, the other three pitchers who have accomplished this same feat are Randy Johnson, Pedro Martinez, and Jacob deGrom.
Blake Snell struck out all 9 starters for the 2nd straight start, becoming the 4th pitcher to do so since 1961. The others:
– Jacob deGrom (2021)
– Pedro Martinez (1999 & 2000)
– Randy Johnson (1992 & 1999) pic.twitter.com/d42Y89xVgc— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) June 18, 2023
That is an elite group to be a part of for the Padres’ star pitcher.
Snell has been a star in the league for quite some time now and his success is obviously continuing in San Diego.
Although it’s been a bit of a rough season for him and the Padres, this monster performance could be what turns things around for the team.
At the end of the day, Saturday’s performance was one for the ages. Especially considering how historic the game of baseball is.
With that said, look for the Padres’ pitcher to continue his hot streak. If the offense can get things rolling, San Diego could be a dangerous team in the back half of the regular season.