Mariners Game Preview: M’s Send King Felix to the Hill to Prepare for Opening Day

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Aug 21, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners pitcher Felix Hernandez (34) throws the ball against the Chicago White Sox during the first inning at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 21, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners pitcher Felix Hernandez (34) throws the ball against the Chicago White Sox during the first inning at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Felix Hernandez who will start on Opening Day will take the hill today to face the Chicago White Sox.

The Seattle Mariners (11-12-2) will host the Chicago White Sox (12-9) this afternoon in Peoria, Arizona. First pitch is scheduled for 1:10 pm PT as the Mariners send Felix Hernandez (0-1, 5.68) to the hill. He will be opposed by Jose Quintana (1-0, 5.40) of the White Sox.

Hernandez has had a traditional spring for him.  He gave up a few runs in his first start and in his second start he only allowed one run.  He has pitched 6.1 innings and allowed 4 runs on 9 hits.  Felix has had as many strikeouts (9) as hits and has only allowed two walks.  Felix Hernandez has been named the Opening Day starter for the Mariners and will oppose Cole Hamels of the Texas Rangers.

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Quintana has made 2 starts and has made the best of it. He’s tallied 8.1 innings and has allowed 5 runs on 7 hits. Quintana has struck out 6 batters this spring, while walking just 1.  That could be something to watch in today’s game. If the Mariners batters attack the strike zone today they will have better luck than being too patient and looking for walks.  Quintana will throw strikes.

Here are this afternoon’s lineups as announced by Mariners skipper Scott Servais and White Sox Manager Robin Ventura:

Today’s lineup for the Mariners includes most of the likely starters in 2016.  However, Ketel Marte is still out of the lineup due to the flu and Franklin Gutierrez may be a late scratch for flu-like symptoms.  Nori Aoki will be at the leadoff spot today and play left and Luis Sardinas who has been battling for the utility spot and is batting a respectable .375 this spring will be at SS for Marte and bat 8th.

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Adam Lind will get the start at first base and bat fifth anchoring the Jet City power alley of Seager batting second, Cano third, and Cruz fourth.  Franklin Gutierrez will bat sixth if he isn’t scratched and play right field.  Chris Iannetta will bat seventh and catch.  And rounding out the order, Leonys Martin will play center and bat ninth.

This game will be televised by Root Sports, and available on MLB.tv as well for streaming subscribers. Sports Radio 710 ESPN will be playing a delayed broadcast of this afternoon’s game.

Next: Smith Leads the M's to a 10-8 Win Over the Rockies

Go follow SoDo Mojo on twitter, as we will be providing live updates throughout today’s contest. Also, check back here after the final out has been recorded for a full recap. Go Mariners!

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