Mariners Game Recap: King Felix Rules

Apr 24, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners pitcher Felix Hernandez (34) points at first base during the fifth inning against the Minnesota Twins at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports

The King Rules

Felix Hernandez was stupendous against the Minnesota Twins on Friday night in the Emerald City. It is fair to say the Twins do not possess a daunting lineup, but the King made even the more formidable hitters look like little leaguers tonight. Hernandez scattered 5 hits in a complete game shutout. The King recorded 9 punch outs, and did not issue any free passes on the night. He had impeccable command of all his pitches. 73 of his 102 pitches found the strike zone tonight. I expected a strong outing from King Felix, but his sterling performance blew me away.

The 29-year-old is one of the few pitchers in the M’s starting rotation that has lived up to the hype over the first month of the season. Hernandez is currently 3-0 with a 1.61 ERA across 4 outings in 2015. He has struck out 36 and walked 5 over the course of 32.0 innings pitched. King Felix has tallied 3 quality starts, and has been a beacon of light in an otherwise disappointing rotation. Tonight’s outing was yet another reminder that we are incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to watch a pitcher of Felix’s caliber pitch 30 times a year.

King Felix will get the ball next for the Mariners when they take on the Texas Rangers next week in Arlington.

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