Royals’ Midwest League pitcher throws perfect game

BURLINGTON, Iowa — Chris Coughlin pitched a perfect game in the Burlington Bees’ 5-0 victory Wednesday night over the Beloit Snappers in a Class A Midwest League game.

“The last inning, my heart was about to beat out of my jersey, so I don’t remember much,” Coughlin said. “I haven’t breathed since the fifth inning.

“It’s the best thing I’ve ever done. I’ve never even come close to pitching a no-hitter.”

It was the second perfect game for Burlington’s franchise and fourth in Midwest League history. It also was the first nine-inning perfect game in franchise history.

Coughlin, who signed with the Kansas City Royals in 2003 as an undrafted free agent, struck out 11. He threw 100 pitches.

The final out came when Josh Murray grounded to third base.

Arizona Diamondbacks’ left-hander Randy Johnson threw a perfect game at Atlanta on May 18.