Felix Hernandez, affectionately known as "King Felix," became a household name in Major League Baseball through his tenure with the Seattle Mariners. Born in Valencia, Venezuela, Hernandez was signed by the Mariners as an international free agent in 2002 at the age of 16. His journey to the major leagues was swift, and by 2005, he made his debut as a starting pitcher for the Mariners.
Hernandez quickly established himself as a dominant force on the mound. Known for his powerful fastball, devastating curveball, and pinpoint control, he became a staple in the Mariners' rotation. In 2009, Hernandez had a breakout season, finishing with a 19-5 record and a 2.49 ERA, earning him a second-place finish in the American League Cy Young Award voting.
The following year, 2010, marked a pinnacle in Hernandez's career. Despite a modest win-loss record of 13-12, his exceptional performance on the mound, including a league-leading 2.27 ERA and 232 strikeouts, earned him the American League Cy Young Award. This achievement was particularly notable given the Mariners' struggles as a team, highlighting Hernandez's individual excellence.
Throughout his career, Hernandez was selected to six All-Star Games, reflecting his status as one of the premier pitchers in the league. His ability to consistently deliver outstanding performances made him a fan favorite and a respected figure among his peers. In 2012, he etched his name in the history books by pitching a perfect game against the Tampa Bay Rays, the 23rd in MLB history and the first in Mariners' history.
Hernandez's tenure with the Mariners was marked by both personal achievements and the challenges of playing for a team that often struggled to reach the postseason. Despite the lack of team success, Hernandez remained loyal to the Mariners, becoming a symbol of perseverance and excellence. His dedication to the franchise was evident as he climbed the ranks to become the Mariners' all-time leader in strikeouts.
As the years progressed, Hernandez faced the inevitable challenges of aging and injuries. His performance began to decline, and by the end of the 2019 season, his time with the Mariners came to a close. Nevertheless, his legacy as one of the greatest pitchers in Mariners' history was firmly established.
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