July 11, 2009 Giants pitcher throws no-hitter with dad in stands Play video

(NECN/Comcast-SportsNet) - Giants pitcher Jonathan Sanchez had some extra motivation on Friday night as he pitched the first no-hitter this season in MLB.

His father had flown in to see him pitch his first major league baseball game with San Francisco.

His dad, Sirgfredo and a friend sat in the stands cheering as the left-hander made his return to the rotation following a nearly three week demotion to the bullpen.

After the game Sanchez spoke about how Gold Glove center fielder Aaron Rowand saved the best for the ninth with a incredible grab to preserve the no-hit bid with 2 out in the inning.

The Giants beat the Padres 8-0.

Parts of this report and came from the AP and Comcast SportsNet.