UPDATE: In a thrilling display of skill, Baltimore Orioles rookie right-hander Brandon Young nearly achieved baseball history, flirting with a perfect game against the Houston Astros before ultimately securing a commanding 7-0 win on Friday night. Young’s perfect game bid came to an unexpected end with just four outs remaining, sending shockwaves through the crowd at Minute Maid Park.
Young dominated the game, retiring the first 23 batters he faced, only to have his moment of glory interrupted by a slow grounder from Ramon Urias. With two outs in the eighth inning, Urias, who recently joined the Astros after a trade, hit a weak 56 mph grounder that rolled between the mound and third base. Despite Young’s effort to field the ball, his off-balance throw went wide of first base, allowing Urias to reach safely with an infield single.
This remarkable performance marks the longest perfect game bid for the Orioles since Mike Mussina had his own perfect game interrupted with two outs in the eighth inning against the Detroit Tigers in 1998, according to ESPN Research. After the error, Young quickly regained his composure, striking out the next batter to end the eighth inning.
Not only did Young set a personal milestone, but he also pitched a career-high eight innings while matching his best with six strikeouts. The native of Lumberton, Texas, entered the game with a challenging record of 0-6 and a 6.70 ERA in his first ten starts, making this performance all the more impressive.
In the ninth inning, Yaramil Hiraldo retired the side in order, preserving the Orioles’ first one-hitter since May 24, 2024. The Astros’ starter, Framber Valdez, kept the Orioles in check early in the game but was unable to contain the surge that started in the fourth inning when Coby Mayo launched a two-out solo home run.
This game not only highlights Young’s potential but also serves as a reminder of the thrill and unpredictability of baseball. Fans and analysts alike are buzzing about this near-historic achievement, making it a moment to remember for Orioles supporters.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Young. Will he capture that elusive perfect game in the future? The baseball world is watching closely.
