Félix Hernández Seattle Mariners Hall of Fame Induction

Félix Hernández is inducted into the Seattle Mariners Hall of Fame after pitching his entire 15-year career with the team.

In a moment filled with emotion and nostalgia, Félix Hernández, the legendary pitcher for the Seattle Mariners, was inducted into the team's Hall of Fame. As he walked from the bullpen to the mound, Aloe Blacc's song "The Man" played, setting the tone for the evening. With arms outstretched and a sense of ownership, Hernández mouthed the words "this is my house."

For Hernández, pitching on the mound was easier than the overwhelming feeling of gratitude and appreciation he experienced during his induction speech. He acknowledged the significance of the moment, recognizing that few individuals have a connection to a team as deep as his own. Throughout his entire 15-year career, Hernández remained loyal to the Mariners, making 418 starts, striking out 2,524 batters, and achieving the franchise's only perfect game.

Despite playing for underachieving teams, Hernández's presence on the mound was a reason for fans to tune in and attend games. The "King's Court," a dedicated section of fans wearing yellow shirts, became a staple of his home starts, beginning in 2011 and continuing until his final start in 2019. These devoted fans would show up in royal costumes, passionately chanting "K" every time Hernández had a chance to strike out another batter.

During the induction ceremony, the loyal "King's Court" fans returned, donning their yellow shirts and costumes, and even breaking out a few "K" chants. Hernández took the opportunity to express his gratitude to the entire Seattle Mariners organization, from ownership to the staff, for believing in him since he was just a 16-year-old from Venezuela. He spoke of the blessing it was to have played his entire career with the Mariners and the unwavering support they provided.

As the other esteemed members of the Mariners Hall of Fame, such as Ichiro Suzuki, Edgar Martinez, and Ken Griffey Jr., sat in padded folding chairs, Hernández took his place on a throne, a symbol of his reign over the "King's Court" during his starts. Throughout the ceremony, Hernández fought back tears, overwhelmed by the significance of the moment. To his surprise and delight, his former teammate and close friend, Adrian Beltre, made a special appearance. The matchups between Beltre and Hernández were legendary, captivating fans with their fierce competition.

In his closing remarks, Hernández expressed his deep appreciation for the Mariners, T-Mobile Park, and the city of Seattle. He declared that they would forever hold a special place in his heart and be considered his home. As the crowd erupted in applause, Hernández's induction into the Mariners Hall of Fame marked a momentous occasion, honoring a player who had left an indelible mark on the franchise and its fans.