The stuff of legend: Lester throws no-hitter

If you're a Red Sox fan or not, it's hard not to smile about what happened Monday night in Boston. And if you're a Hollywood producer, you're optioning the movie rights.

Less than two years ago, Jon Lester didn't even know he would be able to pitch again after being diagnosed with anaplastic large cell lymphoma. In his 37th major-league start, Lester threw the first no-hitter by a left-hander at Fenway Park in 52 years, a 7-0 victory over the Kansas City Royals. Lester, 24, also was the winning pitcher in Game 4 of the World Series last year.

"Really, words can't describe it right now," Lester told the Associated Press.

Not only was it Lester's first no-hitter, the 130-pitch gem was the first complete game of his major-league career.

As in any no-hitter, there were plenty of close calls and a some luck. A stiff wind knocked down the first hit ball of the game, by the Royals' David DeJesus, and turned what might have been a double off the Green Monster into a fly out. And Jacoby Ellsbury made a diving catch in the fourth inning in center field.

Lester's no-hitter was the first in the majors since Sept. 1 of last season, when teammate Clay Buchholz threw one. There was a lot in common with the two no-hitters, especially at catcher.

Jason Varitek caught his fourth no-hitter, tying a record by Ray Schalk of the Chicago White Sox from 1912-1928. Varitek was also the catcher when Hideo Nomo (2001), Derek Lowe (2002) and Buchholz threw theirs.

Photo: Jon Lester of the Boston Red Sox reacts after throwing a no-hitter against the Kansas City Royals at Fenway Park on May 19, 2008 in Boston. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images)