Despite not playing in a game above Class A in his brief pro career, Marlins pitcher Jose Fernandez showed he can compete against a major-league lineup. Fernandez -- the youngest player on an MLB roster at 20 years old and Miami's top prospect -- retired the first 10 batters he faced in his big-league debut Sunday. Fernandez got a no-decision, and the Mets won 4-3.
Throwing a fastball that overwhelmed hitters while repeatedly reaching the mid-90s with ease, Fernandez struck out the side in the second inning on 15 pitches. Overall, he finished with eight strikeouts over five innings to establish the franchise record for most strikeouts by a rookie in his debut.
The right-hander was charged with his only run in the fifth when he yielded two of the three total hits he allowed in the game. He exited after the inning after throwing 80 total pitches, including 53 for strikes, and issuing a walk.
Fernandez will make his first start at home Saturday against Philadelphia.