Seattle Mariners Game Recap: Lose, Lose Situation

Mar 26, 2015; Peoria, AZ, USA; Seattle Mariners starting pitcher Felix Hernandez (34) throws the ball during the fifth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Peoria Sports Complex. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

After scuffling last week against the Chicago Cubs, Felix Hernandez sparkled on Thursday afternoon. King Felix allowed just 1 run on 2 hits across 6 innings today. He dominated the Royals, striking out 4 and walking none. Hernandez did an excellent job locating all of his pitches. Felix kept the ball on the ground, retiring 12 hitters via the ground ball.

King Felix has now made 3 starts this spring, and he has faired reasonably well. He hurled 3 shutout innings against the Colorado Rockies in his spring training debut. However, he was lit up by the Cubs last week, surrendering 6 runs in 2.2 innings. Overall, King Felix is 0-2 with a 5.91 ERA across 10.2 innings pitched. Hernandez has recorded 6 strikeouts and has walked just 2 hitters. Based on today’s performance, I believe Felix is ready for opening day.

Expectations are sky high for the Seattle Mariners in 2015, and King Felix is a big reason why. He was robbed of the American League Cy Young Award last year, but he has the potential to win 20 games this summer in the Emerald City. Felix will likely make one final tune up start before getting the ball on April 6 against the Los Angeles Angels.

Next: Roenis Elias No Longer a Candidate for No.5 Starter