Detroit Tigers ride Justin Verlander’s back to ALCS – MLB Update
Detroit Tigers’ hard throwing ace Justin Verlander showed just what he is capable of as he helped his side emerge victorious against Oakland Athletics at O.co Coliseum in Oakland, California on Thursday, October 11 in Game 5 of the American League Division
Series.
Verlander dominated the A’s batting line-up right from the start of the contest. Using his variations, he created all sorts of problems for the hitters. Verlander’s ability to strike-out batters is what separates him from other pitchers.
The right hander struck-out 11 batters in the first complete game of the season, laying the foundation of an impressive Tigers’ victory. Showing great composure, he gave up just four hits in nine scoreless innings to dent Oakland’s confidence levels, leading
Tigers to their second straight American League Championship Series.
"We feel like we have guys that can hit the ball out of the ballpark, and that's certainly been a key factor for us,'' A's manager Bob Melvin said before the game.
"I don't have anybody better than him," Leyland said in a post game interview. "And if they get to him that much, we'll probably be in trouble. I'm not taking him out, I can assure you of that, because I don't have anybody better to bring in."
Detroit offence also did more than enough to give Justin a cushion on a night Prince Fielder and Miguel Cabrera were kept quiet by the A’s pitching attack.
Verlander outpitched Jarrod Parker who gave up four runs in just over six innings, giving Tigers the chance to establish complete control over the contest.
The 2011 Most Valuable Player helped the Tigers emerge victorious in Game 1 as well and he ended the series in a similar fashion. It seems Verlander is the best pitching option available to the Tigers right now.
Tigers’ Manager Jim Leyland will be expecting Verlander to continue his excellent work on his next appearances to help the Tigers make it to the World Series finals. However, for tonight, it is time for the Tigers to go to their club house for late night
party.
Detroit will definitely be very happy with their performance as they managed to beat the Athletics and advance in the playoffs.
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