Padres closer Miller extends streak to 33.2 scoreless innings, tying team record, with rare zero-strikeout game

San Diego Padres' flame-throwing closer Mason Miller unexpectedly got a relief opportunity in the away game against the Colorado Rockies. Although he again delivered a scoreless performance, keeping his ERA at an astonishing "0.00," this game presented a rare situation—he didn't record any strikeouts, unexpectedly becoming a focal point of discussion.

The Padres staged a major comeback in the top of the ninth inning, scoring five runs to overtake the lead, which also led Miller to take on the closing task temporarily. Facing this situation, he completed his pitching assignment with just seven pitches; although he allowed one hit, he ultimately secured the victory, earning his ninth save of the season.

More importantly, Miller's consecutive scoreless innings streak since August 6 last year has now reached 33.2 innings, tying the Padres' team record set by Cla Meredith in 2006.

Known for his extreme velocity, Miller has fired fastballs reaching 104 mph, paired with a sharp slider, consistently demonstrating dominance in strikeout statistics. Since not recording a strikeout in the game against the Los Angeles Dodgers on August 23 last year, he had established a streak of 35 consecutive appearances with at least one strikeout, racking up 56 strikeouts during that period—only three games had one strikeout, while the other 32 games featured at least two strikeouts, showcasing terrifying dominance.

However, in this game, he completed his pitching without recording any strikeouts, ending this remarkable streak. Although his pitching performance remained perfect with no runs allowed, the "zero strikeouts" incident sparked heated discussions among fans. On social media, even exaggerated reactions appeared, with some joking: "Miller didn't strike anyone out today, is this the first time in his career?"; "No strikeouts at all, does that count as a blowup?"; "Miller actually had zero strikeouts? Is his condition off?"; "No strikeouts and he even allowed a hit, that's rough."

Such amusing reactions from fans precisely reflect that Miller's overwhelming pitching performance this season has been regarded as "expected." Even with a scoreless outing and a successful save, lacking strikeouts is seen as "unusual." As the team's results and personal records advance simultaneously, Miller continues to prove with his performances that he is one of the most dominant closers in the league today.