Welcome Back Justin Verlander
The Detroit Tigers Right-Hander has Re-Emerged as a Cy Young Threat
The Tigers ace has many different titles in his short professional baseball career. From top prospect, to Rookie of the Year, to a potential Cy Young candidate, Verlander looked on his way to a Hall of Fame career decorated with accolades.
The No Hitter
He hit his peak on June 12, 2007 by throwing an inter-league no-hitter against the Milwaukee Brewers while striking out 12 batters, an exceptional feat in itself due to the fact that he was able to pitch all nine innings while throwing enough pitches to still strike out 12.
However, unexpectedly things came crashing down for Verlander in 2008. Feeling the pressure as the ace of the staff, as well as the pressure on the Tigers in general as they were seen as preseason World Series favorites, Verlander finished the 2008 season with a very unimpressive 4.84 ERA while going 11-17 for a struggling Tigers squad.
Some speculated Verlander’s workload in the two previous seasons lead to his breakdown. Others felt the league had finally adjusted to him and his fastball. However being selected 2nd overall out of Old Dominion and flying through the Tigers farm system as easily as he did, did not support the theories that Verlander was simply destined for an average major league career.
Verlander's Resurgence
Despite a rough start to the 2009 season, which resembled the way 2008 ended, Verlander soon rebounded to become the ace he once was. Sporting a high 90’s fastball, that has been clocked as high as 102 on several occasions, as well as impeccable control and a great curveball, Verlander has breezed through his last six starts looking as impressive as ever.
League Leader in Strikeouts
An addition to his already impressive skill set Verlander has emerged this year as a strikeout pitcher, currently leading the league with 85. He has fanned eight or more batters in eight of his last nine starts and is on pace for over 300 for the year.
Tigers in First Place
Verlander carries a 3.55 ERA (1.02 in May) and more importantly for Tigers fans a 5-2 record. Based on the young flame thrower’s resurgence, it comes as no surprise that Detroit leads the AL Central by 4 games (as of 5/25/05).
What do you think about this article?
Latest Articles