Thus, instead of a 5-1 lead, Hernandez was working with a 2-1 edge when C.J. Cron launched a solo homer leading off the sixth to tie the game at 2-2.
"We should have won this game," Hernandez said. "It's Mike Trout. What do you expect? That was an unbelievable catch."
Hernandez had his sights set on getting to 20 wins for the first time, something only Randy Johnson and Jamie Moyer have done for the Mariners. He acknowledged it hurt to see that opportunity slip away as he now stands 18-9 with a 3.53 ERA with one start remaining either Friday or Saturday in the season-ending series against the A's at Safeco Field.