Puerto Rico Combines for First Perfect Game in W.B.C. History

It was the second no-hitter in W.B.C. history, which dates back to 2006. In the inaugural tournament, Shairon Martis, a right-hander for the Netherlands, threw a seven-inning no-hitter against Panama that also ended because of the mercy rule and was also a 10-0 victory.

“We are very happy,” Puerto Rico Manager Yadier Molina told reporters. “I’m very happy with the guys.”

José De León, Puerto Rico’s right-handed starting pitcher, was stellar, striking out 10 Israel batters over five and two-thirds innings. He couldn’t attempt to finish his perfect game bid, however, because W.B.C. rules limit pitchers to 65 pitches per game in the first round. De León, who has struggled in 22 major league appearances, had thrown 64, so Molina had to turn to the bullpen.

Article source: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/03/13/sports/baseball/wbc-puerto-rico-israel.html