Felix Hernandez Perfect Game vs A's (August 15, 2012)
King Félix threw the first perfect game in Mariners history on August 15, 2012.
Félix Abraham Hernández García (born April 8, 1986), nicknamed "King Félix", is a Venezuelan-American former professional baseball pitcher. He played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Seattle Mariners from 2005 through 2019. A six-time All-Star, Hernández led MLB in wins in 2009, led the American League in earned run average in 2010 and 2014, and won the AL Cy Young Award in 2010. He also played on the Venezuelan national team at two editions of the World Baseball Classic.
- Date
- August 15, 2012
- Location
- Safeco Field, Seattle
- Opponent
- Oakland Athletics
- Pitcher
- Felix Hernandez (Seattle Mariners)
- Result
- 4-0 Mariners Victory
- Historical Significance
- 23rd Perfect Game in MLB History
Lore & Background
On August 15, 2012, Hernández threw the 23rd perfect game in MLB history, defeating the Tampa Bay Rays at Safeco Field by a 1-0 score. Hernández's perfect game was also the first perfect game in Seattle Mariners franchise history.
In Their Own Story
The humid air over Safeco Field hung heavy as Felix Hernandez stepped onto the rubber for the ninth inning. His jersey was soaked, but his focus remained laser-sharp. With two outs and no runners on base, he faced the final batter of Oakland. The crowd held its breath in a silence that felt deafening against the roar of the stadium moments prior. A sharp curveball dipped below the knees; the batter swung and missed. Hernandez threw his glove into the air, the King had done it.
Reader's Guide
On April 23, 2016, Hernández claimed the record for most strikeouts by a Mariners pitcher when he struck out Rafael Ortega of the Los Angeles Angels for his 2,163rd strikeout. The previous Mariners record of 2,162 strikeouts had been held by Randy Johnson. Hernández's 146th win, which occurred on May 9, gave him the club record in that category as well.
Did You Know?
- Hernández's perfect game on August 15, 2012, was the 23rd perfect game in MLB history and the first in Seattle Mariners franchise history.
- Hernández led MLB in wins in 2009 and led the American League in earned run average in 2010 and 2014.
- Hernández won the AL Cy Young Award in 2010.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Felix Hernandez throw his perfect game?
The historic performance took place on August 15, 2012, at Safeco Field in Seattle. This date marks the only time a pitcher has achieved perfection within Mariners franchise history.
Who were the Mariners playing against during the perfect game?
Felix faced off against the Oakland Athletics on this memorable night. He retired all 27 batters from that opposing lineup without allowing any baserunners.
Why is this game considered so important for the franchise?
It stands as the sole perfect game ever recorded by a Seattle Mariners pitcher in their existence. This achievement solidified Hernandez's legacy as King Felix among fans and historians alike.
What was the final score of the historic matchup?
The Mariners secured a 4-0 victory over Oakland thanks to the shutout performance. Hernandez's dominance on the mound ensured no runs crossed the plate against him.
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