1967 06-18 Braves at Astros

The Thomas Paine Podcast presents a riveting live radio broadcast of the June 18, 1967, matchup between the Atlanta Braves and the Houston Astros at the Astrodome, capturing one of the most memorable pitching performances in franchise history. The game begins with a nostalgic blend of play-by-play commentary by Lowell Pass, Harry Callis, and Bob Green, underscored by sponsorships for Schlitz beer and Lovera cigars, reflecting the era’s broadcast style. The Astros’ 22-year-old rookie right-hander Don Wilson dominates from the outset, striking out seven in five innings while holding the Braves to just one hit. The Astros’ offense erupts in the fourth inning with timely hits from Sonny Jackson, Rusty Staub, and a crucial double by Jim Wynn, who is leading the NL in home runs and RBIs. The game remains scoreless until the eighth, when Wynn and Staub deliver again to extend the lead to 2-0. Wilson’s legendary performance peaks in the final three innings, as he retires all 27 batters he faces after two walks, culminating in a dramatic strikeout of Hank Aaron on a 3-2 pitch to complete a 2-0 no-hitter. The broadcast captures the electric atmosphere, emotional collapse of Wilson in celebration, and the historical significance of the feat—making it the third no-hitter in Astros history and the first to be both a no-hitter and a shutout since Ken Johnson’s 1964 loss. The game, lasting 2 hours and 35 minutes with 22,173 in attendance, showcases flawless pitching, defensive precision, and a rare moment of baseball perfection.