Johan Santana Throws First No-Hitter in New York Mets Franchise History

Friday night's 8-0 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals might go down as one of the sweetest in New York Mets' franchise history.

Johan Santana became the first Met to throw a no-hitter. Odd for a franchise that has employed the likes of Tom Seaver, Nolan Ryan and Dwight Gooden to name a few.

This is great redemption for Santana, who has been through his fair share of ups and downs over the last few seasons. Battling various arm injuries since signing with the Mets prior to the 2008 season, Santana seems to be finally getting back to form.

While his performance was far from perfect, having walked a total of five Cardinals' hitters, Santana did strikeout eight while throwing a season-high 134 pitches.

Prior to tonight, the Mets were one of two franchises (San Diego Padres) to have never thrown a no-hitter. It is a relief to finally get this proverbial monkey off of their back.

Santana's gem won't be without controversy though, as former Met Carlos Beltran hit a line-drive that was called foul, but replay clearly showed that the ball had indeed landed on the baseline behind third base. Beltran grounded out to third base later in the at bat.

While many may question the decision to bring Santana back out for the eighth inning after having already thrown 107 pitches, it was manager Terry Collins who went against his own call to limit Santana to 115 pitches prior to the game.

Whether or not the high pitch total will affect Santana in future starts will be determined in five days, but right now the Mets shall finally have their moment of no-no glory.

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