Felix Hernandez represents the pitching fantasies of many Yankee fans. Phil Hughes represents the reality.
While Hernandez was in control over seven innings, Hughes allowed two runs and nine hits in six innings as the Mariners snapped their much-publicized 17-game losing streak with a 9-2 rout.
As the nonwaiver trade deadline approaches Sunday, Yankee fans are left to dream about Hernandez, who is 5-0 with a 1.29 ERA in his last five starts against the Bombers.
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“He’s always been one of their best guys,” Curtis Granderson said. “That’s why he’s their ace. It seems like every time we face him, both here and their stadium, he pitches really well.”
Left unsaid was that he won’t become one of the Yankees’ best guys anytime soon, not unless the first name on the return package is a major league talent. For all the phone calls and talking heads insisting that Hernandez must become a Yankee, it will have to remain just talk.
Hughes is four starts into his return, and the results have been mixed. He pitched well in Toronto, but couldn’t win when the Yankees scored 17 runs against Oakland.
“I’m trying to find myself,” Hughes said. I may be trying too hard in some spots and I’m trying to give a little extra when I need it.”
Regardless of whether he finds himself, the object of Yankee fans affection is headed back to Seattle and reality is remaining in New York.
