Scherzer, who signed a $210 million deal with the Washington Nationals over the offseason, came within one strike of throwing a perfect game Saturday against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Nationals Park. The right-hander instead settled for a no-hitter as the Nats blanked the Bucs 6-0.
Scherzer recorded two quick outs in the ninth inning before engaging in an eight-pitch battle with Jose Tabata. Scherzer’s eighth offering of the at-bat struck Tabata on the elbow, with the Pirates outfielder appearing to lean into the pitch to earn a free pass to first base.
Scherzer rebounded to retire Josh Harrison via a flyout to left field to cap his first career no-hitter and the Nationals’ second no-hitter in two seasons.