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Felix Hernandez sets record for strikeouts by a Venezuelan-born pitcher

Kevin Jairaj / USA TODAY Sports

King Felix has surpassed all his countrymen in the missed-bats department. 

In the first inning Monday against the Los Angeles Angels, Seattle Mariners starter Felix Hernandez set the all-time record for strikeouts by a Venezuelan-born pitcher.

Rank Pitcher Strikeouts Year
1 Felix Hernandez 1989 2005-Present
2 Johan Santana 1988 2000-Present
3 Carlos Zambrano 1637 2001-2012
4 Freddy Garcia 1621 1999-2013
5 Wilson Alvarez 1330 1989-2005

Hernandez surpassed Toronto Blue Jays minor leaguer Johan Santana with 1,989 punch-outs, putting him atop the illustrious list. 

Santana, who is the only pitcher who can catch Hernandez at this point, is attempting to resurrect his career in Toronto. He's currently rehabbing in the Blue Jays minor league system with hopes that he'll crack the big squad this summer.

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