Felix Hernandez was masterful today, as the Seattle Mariners finished off their series in Kansas City, 6-1. The KC Royals lost three out of four to the visiting Mariners.

King Felix didn’t even throw ninety pitches in his eight innings of work. His only real trouble came in the 8th inning, when the Royals loaded the bases with just one out. However King Felix struck out Alcides Escobar and induced a ground out from Billy Butler to end the threat.

Will Smith

Meanwhile, the Mariners offense jumped on Will Smith in the 2nd inning for three runs. Smith, who was just called up to make the start, allowed a leadoff homerun to Jesus Montero. Kyle Seager and Justin Smoak followed with back-to-back singles before John Jaso sacrificed them up a base. Michael Saunders followed with an RBI single and Brendan Ryan finished the 2nd inning scoring with a sac fly.

Smith settled down until the 5th inning, when the Mariners put together two hits around a walk to score another run.

The Royals finally got on the board in the bottom of the 5th inning. Eric Hosmer doubled to lead off the inning and Chris Getz delivered a one out RBI single.

Smith was solid, but went up against the ace for Seattle. He allowed four runs on eight hits and two walks over 6.1 innings. He struck out five. He was mainly beat by Montero (three hits).

Next up for the Royals, they continue this LONG homestand with the Minnesota Twins (three games). If the Royals don’t figure out a way to win at Kauffman Stadium, they will find themselves in last place in the American League Central (the Twins are just 1.5 games back of the Royals).

*Vin Mazzaro was optioned to the minors to make room for Smith. What pitching move will come next?

**For more on the Mariners, check out Needle Ball.