This Moment in Sports History for 06-15-2024

On June 15 in sports history, one significant event took place in 1938 when Cincinnati Reds pitcher Johnny Vander Meer achieved a remarkable feat by throwing a no-hitter against the Boston Bees (now known as the Atlanta Braves). This no-hitter was particularly special because it was the second consecutive no-hitter thrown by Vander Meer, making him the only pitcher in Major League Baseball history to accomplish this incredible achievement. Vander Meer's first no-hitter came just four days earlier on June 11, 1938, against the Boston Bees at Crosley Field in Cincinnati. In that game, he walked three batters and struck out four, leading the Reds to a 3-0 victory. In the June 15 game, which took place at Ebbets Field in Brooklyn, Vander Meer once again dominated the Boston Bees lineup. He allowed just three walks and struck out seven batters en route to his second straight no-hitter. The Reds won the game 6-0, and Vander Meer's performance solidified his place in baseball history. Interestingly, Vander Meer's double no-hitter feat came during his first full season in the major leagues. He finished the 1938 season with a 15-10 record and a 3.12 ERA, earning him a spot on the National League All-Star team. Despite his historic accomplishment, Vander Meer's career was relatively short-lived. He played for the Reds, Chicago Cubs, and Cleveland Indians over the course of his 13-year career, compiling a record of 119-121 with a 3.44 ERA. However, his back-to-back no-hitters in 1938 remain one of the most incredible and unique feats in the history of professional baseball.