Astros' Blanco Shatters MLB Record Amidst Team's Rocky Start
April 8, 2024
Ronel Blanco of the Houston Astros has had an exceptional start to the 2024 MLB season, including pitching a no-hitter against the Toronto Blue Jays.
Blanco nearly replicated his no-hit feat in his second start, maintaining a no-hitter into the sixth inning versus the Texas Rangers.
He continued to dominate by pitching six scoreless innings against the Rangers on April 7, 2024, contributing to a 3-1 Astros victory, backed by Yordan Alvarez's three-run homer.
Despite the Astros' slow team start, matching their worst since 2011 with a 3-7 record, Blanco has excelled, allowing only one hit and no earned runs in his first 15 innings.
Blanco's performance is particularly notable considering his past 4.78 ERA and modest beginnings, signing for a $5,000 bonus as an international amateur free agent from the Dominican Republic.
The Astros are preparing for a series finale against the Rangers with left-handed starters Framber Valdez and Andrew Heaney.
Summary based on 3 sources
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Sources

AP News • Apr 8, 2024
Blanco follows no-hitter with six 1-hit innings as Astros beat Rangers 3-1
Bleacher Report • Apr 8, 2024
Astros' Ronel Blanco Throws Historic 14.2 Hitless Innings to Open 2024 MLB Season
CBSSports.com • Apr 8, 2024
Astros' Ronel Blanco loses no-hitter in sixth inning vs. Rangers in first start since no-hitting Blue Jays