Verlander Signs a Solid Performance with the Giants
Victories have been scarce for Justin Verlander this season, but the experienced pitcher proved his worth in a recent encounter. In a game that required 121 pitches, the 42-year-old right-hander struck out 10 batters in five scoreless innings, contributing to the San Francisco Giants’ victory over the Baltimore Orioles with a score of 13-2. With the Giants leading 7-0 in the fifth inning, the team didn’t consider taking Verlander out, even though his pitch count was increasing. Finally, he finished the top of that inning by striking out Gunnar Henderson and Ryan Mountcastle, which allowed him to get his third win of the year and the 265th of his career.This number of pitches is the second highest in the Major Leagues this season. Cleveland’s Gavin Williams threw 126 on August 6 against the New York Mets. Verlander, who now has a 3-10 record on the season, lowered his ERA to 4.29 on Sunday and reached double digits in strikeouts for the 73rd time in his career. He allowed three hits and four walks.On a day when you feel like you’re penalizing someone if they throw 100 pitches, to throw 120 in five innings, he didn’t want to hear anything about coming out of the game. There’s a lot to learn from him.
Bob Melvin, Giants Manager
After a winless start to the season in his first 16 starts with the Giants, after joining the team in the offseason, the three-time Cy Young Award winner has achieved two consecutive victories, including a win against the Chicago Cubs earlier in the week. This was his first game with 10 strikeouts since August 23, 2022, when he played for Houston. The last time he threw so many pitches was on June 19, 2018, when he threw 122 for the Astros against Tampa Bay.It’s difficult for me because, especially in my old school style, it’s only five innings. I’m not sure I’m going home and saying it was a great opening. At the end of the day, I think they did a great job fighting off good pitches and fouls.
Justin Verlander
