During games, rookie Luis Vázquez is always prepared to go on the field, even though he knows his role means that’s far from a guarantee each night.

But to a certain extent, there was no amount of planning that could have him ready for coming in as a defensive replacement during a no-hitter.

“I’m always ready, just waiting for the opportunities that they give me and when they give you the opportunity, you try to take advantage of it to the maximum,” Vázquez said. “Today with the history of a no-hitter, you feel really proud and excited.”

Complete coverage of the no-hitter
–WATCH: The final out as Cubs put finishing touches on no-no
–Every out from the 2nd combined no-hitter in franchise history
–Shota Imanaga wasn’t aware of the no-hitter during outing
–Craig Counsell explains thought process behind taking Imanaga out of game
–Amaya, Hodge react after final out
–Analyzing the epic pitching performance from Imanaga, Pearson and Hodge
–The final out from every Cubs no-hitter since 2008
–Alex Cohen and Jim Deshaies recap no-hitter
–Pat Hughes’ call of the final out
–Miguel Esparza’s call of the final out in Spanish
–Dansby Swanson’s selfless gesture for Cubs pitchers during no-hitter
–‘So special’: Catcher Miguel Amaya got emotional celebrating Cubs no-hitter

Vázquez entered for Isaac Paredes at third base in the 8th inning. The ball never found its way to the 24-year-old who had played just 10 innings across 7 games before Wednesday.

But being a part of a no-hitter was still an achievement that players with 100 times that level of experience have never lived.

“This is unforgettable,” Vázquez said. “Not everyone can do it in the big leagues and to be here, I’m going to keep it in my heart my whole life.”

It was a reminder for him that any opportunity can be an unforgettable one. A blowout game allowed him to play. His skills and preparation allowed him to be a small part of the 18th no-hitter in Cubs history.

“Super emotional to be part of history,” he said. “You’re always focused on being ready when needed and taking advantage of any opportunity, but what more than to be a part of history and a no-hitter in front of your fans, the pitchers, the field — you feel really proud and excited.”