When the Edmonton Prospects took to the field in Fort McMurray Friday, it was a big day for pitcher Rich Walker — in fact, it was perfect.
In his first year with the Prospects, the Arizona native tossed a perfect game.
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The Prospects won the game 4-0. It was Walker’s fourth start of the season.
Walker recorded nine strikeouts, no hits, no runs and no walks. The tone? Perfection. Twenty-seven up and 27 down.
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In a post-game interview, Walker credited his teammates, including shortstop Aidan Huggins.
“He was absolutely unreal for me… I think he had four or five ground balls — some of them were not the easiest — so he definitely picked me up there.
“The number one play of the day came from Zane (Takhar), our second baseman. A little jam shot hit between him and the first baseman. He busted that through the outfield to make that play for me,” Walker said.
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Major League Baseball describes a perfect game as one in which a pitcher throws a win that lasts at least nine innings and during which no opposing player reaches base.
Prospects managing partner, Patrick Cassidy, was stunned.
“Unbelievable! I really can’t believe what I just witnessed. I’m still shaking. It’s an incredible individual and team accomplishment,” he said.
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The Prospects will host the Brooks Bombers on Canada Day at Remax Field. Ball fans can watch fireworks from the stadium after the game.
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