Fernandez makes history in win over Reds
MIAMI -- Any time Jose Fernandez steps on the mound, something special may happen. On Thursday night, in the Marlins' 2-0 win over the Reds, it was another historic occasion.
Fernandez, who struck out nine over seven innings, improved to 14-0 with a 1.17 ERA at Marlins Park. According to Stats LLC, his streak of 22 home starts without a loss to open his career is the longest since 1914.
The Elias Sports Bureau noted Fernandez is the third pitcher since 1900 to win each of his first 14 home decisions. Johnny Allen (1932-33 Yankees) and LaMarr Hoyt (1980-82 White Sox) each won their first 16 decisions.
From the first inning, it was clear Fernandez was on top of his game. He scattered six hits and didn't walk a batter, improving to 2-0 (2.08) in his first two starts back from Tommy John surgery.
Video: CIN@MIA: Fernandez on his second start of the season
"I guess he loves Miami, that's all I can say," Marlins manager Dan Jennings said. "It's fun to watch him here. There is a little bit of an aura when he pitches at home. I think the fans feel it as well.
"Some of it may be the ballpark, but every night he takes the ball, you feel very good about your chances to win the game."
Following Fernandez, Carter Capps retired the side in order in the eighth and A.J. Ramos locked down the ninth, as Miami recorded its sixth shutout.
"I left the game healthy," Fernandez said. "I think it was a really important win for us. … They're not an easy team. Some tough hitters there."
Video: CIN@MIA: Jennings on Fernandez's dominance in win
The energetic Fernandez fed off the excitement of the crowd.
"The fans are the way they are. They give a lot of support," Fernandez said. "Sometimes I look into the stands and I see those kids laughing, saying my name. It's really special, knowing everything I've been through. I really appreciate being out there and seeing them smiling."
Fernandez labored in the seventh, giving up two one-out singles. But on his 94th and final pitch, he got Tucker Barnhart to bounce into a 6-4-3 double play.
"He was very good," Reds manager Bryan Price said. "We've seen him before and know he's good. Today, he didn't make any fatal mistakes by walking people, falling behind or giving up the big hit."
Video: CIN@MIA: Marlins turn speedy double play to end 7th
Jeff Mathis, who has caught both of Fernandez's starts, noted the right-hander was able to contain his emotions a little more than in his first outing, on July 2 in a 5-4 win over the Giants.
"That's something we've talked about, since before his last start, too," Mathis said. "Trying to calm his emotions down. To channel that energy and put it in the right direction."