You’re not going to find out what’s on Felix Hernandez’s mind by asking him to reflect. You’re not going to get a read on his emotions by poking or prodding or probing.
No, if you want to know how the worst season of the Mariners pitcher’s career is weighing on him, you pay attention to what he isn’t saying. Because in 2018, it seems his words have never been more sparse.
“He’s quiet. He’s not himself. He’s not happy,” said Mariners pitching coach Mel Stottlemyre Jr. “I spend a lot of time with our guys — I’ve never seen him this down.