Blue Jays' Francis named AL Pitcher of the Month

Toronto Blue Jays righty Bowden Francis was named the American League Pitcher of the Month for August, MLB announced Tuesday.

Francis earned the honor by posting a 1.05 ERA with 39 strikeouts across 34 1/3 innings pitched. He limited opposing hitters to a minuscule .089 batting average across six appearances (five starts).

The highlight of Francis' stellar month came in Toronto on Aug. 24 against the Los Angeles Angels when he took a no-hitter into the ninth inning before giving up a solo home run to outfielder Taylor Ward.

Francis has given up 10 baserunners over his last 29 innings pitched, the fewest allowed over such a stretch in MLB history, according to CodifyBaseball.

The 28-year-old is 8-3 with a 3.66 ERA and 0.99 WHIP on the season.

Francis is scheduled to make his next start Wednesday against the NL East-leading Philadelphia Phillies.