Millwood's No-Hitter

Kevin Millwood pitched his first no-hitter over the weekend as the Philadelphia Phillies beat the San Francisco Giants 1-0. He faced 29 batters, only two more than the minimum.

No-hitters always amaze me. I can't imagine how nervous a pitcher becomes once he realizes the potential achievement. The pressure mounts with each successive out. The fielders handle every ball with extra care. Superstitions suddenly seem less ridiculous. When it gets down to the final out, everybody holds his or her breath, silently rooting him on, even if he's on the opposing team. And when he succeeds, the crowd cheers with relief and exhilaration.

Today, Millwood must be riding a major high.