Nine Pitches, Nine Strikes, Three Outs, Inning Over – That’s a Wow!

Last night my son Doug shared his Mariners season-ticket package with me, and, as it turns out, we not only got to see a (recently rare) win by the M’s, but we also saw perhaps the most eventful game of the year.

Only the mention of one player is necessary: pitcher Felix Hernandez

At one point about a third of the way into the game, the 22-year-old struck out seven of eight, including six straight (one shy of the Seattle record), AND including all three outs in the fourth inning on the minimum nine pitches. It’s one reason why they call him a phenom and predict such great things for his future.

Being a young pitcher with a 5-1 lead, he struggled a bit in the sixth inning. But he and two relievers hung on to get the win. Second year pitcher and interim closer Brandon Morrow got three quick outs in the ninth with some near-century mark velocity to shut down the Marlins. Final score was 5-4.

All in all, it was a great night at gorgeous Safeco Field, and an even better time with my son. You can order food right from Doug’s seats (they deliver it in a minute or so), and because it’s so convenient, I always eat too much. But what a way to go!