Liria-No-No
By Editorial Staff
Minnesota Twins pitcher Francisco Liriano threw the first no hitter of the 2011 season Tuesday night against the Chicago White Sox. The lefty threw 123 pitches, matching a career high.
Before Tuesday’s start, the reigning AL Comeback Player of the Year had been unable to last more than 6.1 innings in any start this season. That all changed when Liriano turned in his no-hit performance, the first complete game of the 27 year olds career.
Like the Twins, Liriano has struggled out of the gate this season. In his last appearance he gave up seven earned runs in only 3 innings. You can tell it hasn’t been a productive year when a no hitter lowers your ERA to 6.61.
Liriano wasn’t particularly sharp Tuesday, allowing 6 walks and only throwing 66 of his 123 pitches for strikes. The defense did their part, turning three double plays on the night.
Jason Kubel homered in the 4th inning to give the Dominican lefty all the support he would need.
Just last Friday manager Ron Gardenhire hinted that Liriano’s spot in the rotation may be in jeopardy. The Twins hope their starter can build off of Tuesday’s effort and revert back to his successful 2010 form.