Félix Hernández, Venezuelan-American baseball player

Félix Abraham Hernández García, affectionately known across the baseball world as "King Félix," is a name synonymous with pitching excellence and, more specifically, with the Seattle Mariners franchise. Born on April 8, 1986, in Valencia, Venezuela, Hernández embarked on a remarkable professional baseball career that saw him become one of Major League Baseball's most dominant pitchers for over a decade. While currently a free agent, his most indelible mark was left during his extensive tenure with the Mariners, where he played from 2005 through 2019.

The Reign of "King Félix" in Seattle

From the moment he stepped onto the mound, Félix Hernández captivated fans with his powerful arm, an array of pitches, and an undeniable competitive spirit. He quickly ascended to become the ace of the Mariners' pitching staff, earning his regal nickname "King Félix" as a testament to his commanding presence and consistent performance. His career with the Mariners was a highlight reel of memorable moments and historic achievements that solidified his place in the team's pantheon.

A Perfect Day in Baseball History

Among his many accolades, one day stands out as a jewel in his crown: August 15, 2012. On this date, Félix Hernández etched his name into the annals of baseball lore by throwing the 23rd perfect game in Major League Baseball history. Facing the Tampa Bay Rays at Seattle's Safeco Field (now T-Mobile Park), Hernández delivered an absolutely flawless performance, not allowing a single Rays batter to reach base throughout the entire nine innings. The tension and excitement in the stadium were palpable as he closed out the 1–0 victory, completing a feat so rare and difficult that it remains one of baseball's ultimate achievements. For the Seattle Mariners, it was not only the first perfect game in franchise history but also, remarkably, the most recent perfect game to have occurred in Major League Baseball to this day, underscoring its immense significance.

Rewriting the Mariners' Record Books

Beyond his perfect game, King Félix consistently demonstrated his prowess and longevity, eventually shattering long-standing franchise records previously held by other Mariners legends. On April 23, 2016, in a pivotal moment of his career, Hernández solidified his place atop the Mariners' all-time strikeout list. He achieved his 2,163rd strikeout as a Mariner pitcher by fanning Rafael Ortega of the Los Angeles Angels, thereby surpassing the formidable record of 2,162 strikeouts held by the iconic "Big Unit," Randy Johnson. This achievement was particularly meaningful, given Johnson's own legendary status and a testament to Hernández's enduring dominance.

Just a few weeks later, on May 9, 2016, Hernández added another significant club record to his résumé. With his 146th career victory, he claimed the Mariners' all-time wins record, surpassing another beloved former Mariner, Jamie Moyer. These milestones not only highlighted his individual brilliance but also showcased his incredible consistency and commitment to the Seattle franchise over many years.

FAQs About Félix Hernández

When was Félix Hernández born?
Félix Hernández was born on April 8, 1986.
What is Félix Hernández's famous nickname?
He is widely known by the nickname "King Félix."
Which MLB team did Félix Hernández primarily play for?
Félix Hernández spent the vast majority of his career, from 2005 through 2019, playing for the Seattle Mariners.
When did Félix Hernández throw his perfect game?
He threw the 23rd perfect game in MLB history on August 15, 2012, against the Tampa Bay Rays.
Is Félix Hernández's perfect game still the most recent in MLB history?
Yes, his perfect game from August 15, 2012, remains the most recent perfect game thrown in Major League Baseball.
Which Mariners' strikeout record did Félix Hernández break, and whose record was it?
On April 23, 2016, he claimed the record for most strikeouts by a Mariners pitcher with his 2,163rd strikeout, surpassing the previous record of 2,162 held by Randy Johnson.
Whose Mariners' win record did Félix Hernández surpass?
On May 9, 2016, he surpassed Jamie Moyer to hold the club record for most wins by a Mariners pitcher with his 146th victory.