Budding Talent on Display

Ever wish you'd watched a Nirvana show before Bleach came out?

Or sipped wine at Keith Haring's first gallery show?

Or seen Karl Rove eat his first donut?

Even if you aren't a fan of music, art, or obesity, it's hard not to envy those who saw nascent talent bloom.

Which is why, if you want to have something to tell your grandkids, you may want to go to Safeco Field tonight and watch 19-year-old Mariner pitcher Felix Hernandez throw his 97-mph heat at the White Sox.

Hernandez has been weighted with great expectations since he signed to a professional contract at the age of 16.

He has done nothing to disappoint in his first four major league starts. He's struck out more than a batter per inning, hasn't lost a single start, and permitted a Jeff Cirillo-esque .157 batting average from opponents.

It's impossible, of course, to predict the course of this kid's career. Young promise turns to disappointment faster than Britney Spears will ask for an epidural.

Yet, on the off-chance that Felix becomes as good as he can, we urge you to snatch the chance to see him now. He pitches tonight. Go.

At worst, you'll get to sit outside on a beautiful Seattle night and drink absurdly overpriced beer.

Tonight's game begins at 7:05. Buy tickets.