Whatever critics in his home country had to say about Felix Hernandez, it all seemed millions of dollars and many miles away Friday when the star pitcher reported to Mariners spring training.

In the clubhouse and on the field, Hernandez didn't have to hear or see the reaction from fans in his native Venezuela who are unhappy that he has opted to skip the World Baseball Classic and stay with his team.

Hernandez was as happy-go-lucky as ever, sitting with clubhouse attendants early in the morning and smiling and gesturing with teammates and coaches before a small crowd of fans at the Mariners complex once the day's workout began.