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Hernandez set to take on Red Sox again

Jun 26, 2007 - 2:18 PM Boston (48-27) at Seattle (40-33) 10:05 pm EDT

SEATTLE (Ticker) -- The last time Felix Hernandez faced the Boston Red Sox, he came within six outs of a no-hitter. He will try to match that performance on Tuesday when the Seattle Mariners host the Red Sox.

The 21-year-old Hernandez finished off that start on April 11 at Fenway Park with a one-hit shutout, thrusting himself into the national spotlight.

Hernandez (4-4, 4.00 ERA) struggled after that start, injuring his arm in his next outing and struggling to overcome that injury over the next two months. His last start proved he was back to full health, as he struck out nine in eight scoreless innings to earn a win against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Boston will counter with rookie Kason Gabbard (1-0, 3.60). The 25-year-old lefthander was recalled from Class AAA Pawtucket to make the start here and possibly a few more as Curt Schilling sits on the disabled list with an ailing shoulder.

Gabbard made one start earlier this season against Atlanta, earning a win by allowing two runs and six hits in five innings on May 20.

Hernandez and Gabbard actually squared off against each other last season on July 22. Both starters allowed just two earned runs, but Hernandez earned the win with seven strong innings while Gabbard left the game after 5 1/3.

The Mariners took the series opener on Monday, 9-4.