Detroit Tigers decision on Justin Verlander unchanged – MLB Playoffs
The Detroit Tigers’ team manager Jim Leyland stuck to his decision to try Justin Verlander in Game 5 instead of Game 4 of the American League Championship Series. Verlander insistent upon starting Game 4 due largely to the rain forecast in Game 5.
If rain is to fall, he will not be able to pitch according to the set rules of the Major League Baseball. Interestingly, two of the last three starts that this game-winner has had were washed away by rain.
Because of the rain that has become a constant feature of the games that he appears in, he wishes to play in a game that does not involve any possibility of showers.
"I went and talked to [Leyland] a few times," the pitcher said. "I told him I would be ready. He just kept saying no, no, no. I finally went in there and said, 'Hey, I'm going to prepare to throw Game 4. You make the decision after that.'
But his insistence to play Game 4 got the thumbs down from the team manager Jim Leyland who said Verlander might not be pitching due to his exhaustion.
"I think he's a little tired. That's why he's not pitching [Wednesday]," Leyland said.
Verlander rather convincingly stated he felt good and wanted to pitch. But the Detroit Tigers are not willing to change their mind now. The Tigers have to win Game 4 to level the series as the Texas Rangers have a 2-1 lead.
If the Texas Rangers win Game 4, it will help them grab a commanding position in the American League Championship Series. Given the fact that the Tigers traversed some tough paths to make their way into the ALCS, they will definitely not want to let it happen.
Whatever the decision is for the fate of Verlander’s status in Game 4, the Tigers are putting every effort to keep themselves afloat. With Verlander set to pitch, they are in a strong position to do that. The Tigers will be looking to put in a good performance
and come out strong against the Rangers to dominate the game early.
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