Texas Rookie Pitcher Faces Tough Luck in No-Hit Bid

ARLINGTON, Texas — The Texas Rangers’ rookie right-hander, Al Leiter, had a no-hit bid going in the seventh inning on Sunday, showcasing impressive control through the first nine outs. His performance went head-to-head with Houston‘s lefty Franber Valdez.

Leiter, the son of retired major league pitcher Al Leiter, recognized the potential for a memorable game early on as neither team registered a hit through the first three innings. Ironically, the last time Valdez pitched at the Rangers’ home field, he lost a no-hit bid with two outs in the ninth.

This time around, Valdez clinched the victory thanks to a critical three-run home run in the eighth inning, leading Houston to a 4-3 win and splitting the four-game series.

Reflecting on the experience, Leiter said, “I think every game is its own learning experience. That’s all I’m trying to do is soak it in as much as possible and learn as much as I can.” He acknowledged the disappointment of not winning, especially on a getaway day.

Leiter lost his no-hit bid when Houston’s Corey Seager hit a solo homer in the seventh inning, trimming the score to 3-1. Despite striking out in the same inning, he faced challenges in the eighth, allowing singles before being relieved.

Valdez excelled through five of his first six innings, with only a three-run fourth inning marking his most significant trouble. The two-time All-Star was unfazed by past setbacks, saying, “I’m focusing on what’s happening now. I felt like I had seven very good innings.”

However, Valdez’s perfect outing wasn’t the only concern. The Rangers also faced the loss of pitcher Hayden Wesneski, who is set to undergo Tommy John surgery, sidelining him until late in the 2026 season.

Wesneski went on the 15-day injured list due to right elbow discomfort. He had a brief stint with injuries last season, but felt better in Milwaukee prior to the swelling that necessitated the diagnosis.

Dr. Keith Meister is set to perform the surgery, and Wesneski hopes to stay positive as he recovers.