Last night the amazing story that Jon Lester is writing for himself just got another chapter. The 24 year old has survived cancer, pitched game four of the World Series last fall, has a Championship ring, and now has a No-Hitter to his name. Only even more proof that Boston is the center of the sporting world. Lester through a career high 130 pitches in his dominating 7-0 victory over the Kansas City Royals. Last night also was Lester’s first complete game.
More on Lester’s historic night…
Boston would have their fair share of breaks on a chilly night at Fenway Park. In the fourth inning, Jacoby Ellsbury would dive for a Jose Guillen looper that at the time looked like end Lester’s No-No. Jon would have enough in the tank to strike out eight, and walk only two. One of his walks would be given up to Esteban German in the ninth.
After striking out the last batter in the nineth inning, Boston began its celebration. One of the first out of the dugout would be Red Sox manager, Terry Francona, who after Lester was diagnosed with Lymphoma would take on the role of a second father.
“It’s something I’ll remember for a long time,” said Lester. “He has been like a second dad to me. He cares a lot about his players. It’s not just about what you can do on the field.”
Jon’s No-Hitter follows that of teammate Clay Buchholz, making it the 18th in Red Sox history. Something other major league teams can not claim. The New York Mets have never had a No-Hitter by any of their pitchers, and they have been in existence since 1962.
When asked about how this accomplishment compares to his World Series win seven months ago, Lester was still in tremendous shock of what had just happened.
“I can’t tell you which one means more to me,” he answered. “They’re both up there. They both mean a heck of a lot to me. It’s something I’ll cherish for a long time.”
Congratulations Jon Lester, may your story continue to grow and inspire others. Boston still remains as dominant as ever.
