In the early days of the Houston Colt .45s, a significant milestone was achieved that would be remembered in the annals of baseball history. On May 17, 1963, Don Nottebart pitched the first no-hitter for the Houston Colt .45s, marking a pivotal moment for the expansion team. This game not only showcased Nottebart's skill but also set a precedent for the franchise's future.
The Game That Made History
On that memorable day, the Houston Colt .45s faced off against the Philadelphia
Phillies at Colt Stadium. Don Nottebart, a pitcher for the Colt .45s, delivered an outstanding performance that would go down in history. He managed to keep the Phillies hitless throughout the game, leading his team to a 4-1 victory. Despite allowing three walks, Nottebart struck out eight batters, demonstrating his dominance on the mound.
The game was notable not only for the no-hitter but also because it was one of the rare instances where a no-hitter did not result in a shutout. An error in the fifth inning allowed the Phillies to score an unearned run, making it the second no-hitter since 1950 to occur without a shutout. This unique aspect added an extra layer of intrigue to Nottebart's achievement.
The Impact on the Franchise
Don Nottebart's no-hitter was a significant achievement for the Houston Colt .45s, an expansion team in only its second season. The no-hitter was the first in the franchise's history, setting a high standard for future performances. It was also part of a record-setting season for the Colt .45s' pitching staff, which recorded five games with a game score of 90 or higher.
This achievement helped to establish the Colt .45s as a competitive team in the National League, despite their overall struggles in the standings. The no-hitter was a bright spot in a season where the team finished ninth in the league. It provided a sense of hope and potential for the future of the franchise.
A Legacy Remembered
The significance of Don Nottebart's no-hitter extends beyond the immediate impact on the 1963 season. It laid the groundwork for the team's future successes and helped to build a fan base in Houston. The game was witnessed by 8,223 fans at Colt Stadium, who were part of a historic moment in baseball history.
Nottebart's performance is remembered as a testament to the potential of the Houston Colt .45s, who would later become the Houston Astros. His no-hitter remains a celebrated part of the team's history, symbolizing the early struggles and triumphs of an expansion team finding its place in Major League Baseball.
