MLB wrap: Astros' Justin Verlander pitches 3rd career no-hitter

Alexis Mansanarez

MLB wrap: Astros' Justin Verlander pitches 3rd career no-hitter image

Justin Verlander pitched his third career no-hitter Sunday.

He struck out 14 and walked only one in the Astros' 2-0 win over the Blue Jays and is now 17-5 this season.

Verlander was able to complete the no-hitter after rookie infielder Abraham Toro broke a scoreless tie with a two-run home run in the top of the ninth inning to put Houston ahead.

The third baseman also made a routine defensive play to seal Verlander's no-hitter.

"Man, I can't put it into words," Verlander said, via MLB.com. "I mean, I've been so close to the third one so many times, it just didn't happen and then tonight, Abraham Toro comes up with a huge homer. Only fitting that he was able to make the last out. Ball is in play, you're just hoping that it's an out. Make an out, make an out, make an out, good throw, good throw, good throw."

The Astros remain in control of the American League West as they have a 10-game advantage over the second-place Athletics.

Studs of the Night

Ryan Zimmerman returned from the injured list and hit one of the Nationals' four home runs in their 9-3 win over the Marlins.

Adalberto Mondesi, who also returned from the IL, matched a career-high with four hits. He also stole three bases as the Royals beat the Orioles, 6-4.

Michael Pineda pitched an effective six innings and allowed just two runs on five hits in the Twins' 8-3 win against the Tigers.

Duds of the Night

Francisco Lindor and Carlos Santana both went 0 for 5 in the Indians' 8-2 loss to the Rays.

Craig Kimbrel struggled on the mound, giving up three runs in just 2/3 innings.

Highlights

Carlos Carrasco made his return to the mound Sunday. He was diagnosed with leukemia in June.

Steven Brault's first career home run was a doozy.

Matt Olson with an impressive catch and throw.

What's Next?

Rangers (67-71) at Yankees (90-48), 1 p.m. ET — The Yankees and Rangers will begin a three-game series Monday. New York will start Masahiro Tanaka (10-7, 4.47 ERA) while Texas will send Mike Minor (11-8, 3.25) to the mound.

Alexis Mansanarez