Flashback to June 20

Sports History

1967

Houston Astros’ Don Wilson no-hits Atlanta Braves, 2-0.

Read more

On June 18, 1967, the baseball world witnessed an exceptional feat of athleticism and skill as Don Wilson of the Houston Astros threw a no-hitter against the Atlanta Braves. The game ended with a final score of 2-0 in favor of the Astros, but the real story of the day was Wilson’s dominance on the mound.

This historic event took place at the Astrodome in Houston, Texas, which was known as one of the most pitcher-friendly ballparks at the time. Wilson, a right-handed pitcher known for his powerful arm and nasty curveball, made full use of the favorable conditions to stifle the Braves’ offense.

The game started off quietly, with both teams struggling to generate any offense. Through five scoreless innings, Wilson showcased his excellent command, consistently hitting his spots and keeping the opposing hitters off balance. Despite facing a formidable Braves lineup, which included future Hall of Famers Hank Aaron and Orlando Cepeda, Wilson remained focused and determined.

In the sixth inning, the Astros managed to provide some run support for Wilson. Jim Wynn, a standout player known for his power hitting, delivered a clutch home run that put the Astros ahead 1-0. The crowd erupted with excitement, sensing that something special was unfolding.

With the pressure on, Wilson continued to dominate on the mound. His pitches were sharp and his control impeccable, making it increasingly difficult for the Braves to make solid contact. As the game progressed, the tension grew with every out recorded by Wilson.

In the eighth inning, the Astros managed to extend their lead with a timely RBI single from Bob Aspromonte, giving Wilson an insurance run to work with heading into the final inning. With a 2-0 lead, all eyes were on Wilson as he took the mound for the ninth inning.

Facing the heart of the Braves’ lineup, Wilson seemed unfazed by the magnitude of the moment. He displayed incredible composure and an unwavering focus, throwing pitch after pitch with precision. The Braves’ hitters became increasingly frustrated as they struggled to put the ball in play.

With two outs in the ninth inning, only one Braves batter stood between Wilson and an unforgettable accomplishment. In a dramatic conclusion to the game, Wilson induced a groundball to third base, where Bob Aspromonte made a clean throw to first base, sealing the no-hitter and igniting a wild celebration at the Astrodome.

Don Wilson’s no-hitter was a testament to his exceptional talent and mental toughness. He displayed exceptional command and control throughout the game, frustrating the Braves’ hitters and preventing them from mounting any significant threat. The Astros’ victory not only highlighted Wilson’s brilliance but also showcased the team’s strong defensive efforts in support of their pitcher.

This iconic moment in baseball history left a lasting impact on fans worldwide. Wilson’s feat joined him with an elite group of pitchers who have achieved the rare accomplishment of throwing a no-hitter. It served as a reminder of the timeless appeal of baseball and the incredible achievements that can occur on any given day.

On that memorable day in 1967, Don Wilson etched his name into the record books with a masterful performance that will forever be remembered in baseball lore. His no-hitter against the Atlanta Braves remains a shining example of the brilliance and skill that can be exhibited on the diamond, captivating fans and inspiring future generations of players.

We strive for accuracy. If you see something that doesn't look right, click here to contact us!


Contact Us

Wake Up to Today's Flashback

Subscribe now to receive captivating daily digests from Today's Flashback. Delve into a variety of intriguing past events, all conveniently delivered to your inbox. Perfect for history enthusiasts and the curious alike!

We care about your data. View our privacy policy.
" "