In this 2010 file photo, Mariners starting pitcher Felix Hernandez is kicked in the head by catcher Rob Johnson after the two chased a bunt from Baltimore’s Cesar Izturis in the fifth inning. Hernandez finished the game. Johnson is no longer with the club. But King Felix, the reigning American League Cy Young winner, will be on the mound tonight in Oakland as the M's open their 2011 season against the Athletics. Here's hoping that the Mariners don't suffer another pratfall this season as they did last year.

• Update: Hernandez pitched the distance to beat the A's 6-2.