Jose Valverde looking to make impression in World Series – MLB Update
Detroit Tigers’ relief pitcher Jose Valverde will be looking to bounce back strongly in the World Series. Valverde struggled to pitch with control and accuracy in the American League Championship Series against the New York Yankees.
He gave up back-to-back home-runs against Ichiro Suzuki and Raul Ibanez in Game 1 to blow his fifth save of the year and the Yankees managed to force the game into the extra inning. However, the Tigers were extremely lucky. Delmon Young put up an inspired
performance to help his side end up on the winning side.
Phil Coke replaced Valverde for the next three games. Coke made the most of available opportunities to help the Tigers secure a memorable series sweep against the Yankees. Valverde will now have to up his game play considerably to get back into the closing
role on Tigers’ roster.
''Just going to play it by ear, see what happens,'' Leyland said in a post game interview. ''I don't really have any definite information on that yet. We'll just see how the game plays out, who's coming up. Like I always say, I hope we have that to worry
about. If we do, we'll come up with somebody.''
The closer gave some impressive results last season when he made 49 saves in 49 opportunities with a fantastic ERA. However, he has not been able to live to his immense potential this year, blowing five saves out of 40 chances.
''It's my legs. My legs were a little slow,'' he said Tuesday. ''Now I have the same rhythm I had before.''
''The last time I pitched in New York my split was flat,'' Valverde said. ''Now so far everything is perfect.''
Manager Jim Leyland is still showing a lot of faith in him. He wants the closer to learn his lessons and make a strong come back in the World Series.
Tigers take on the San Francisco Giants in Game 1 of best of seven games World Series on Wednesday evening and it will be interesting to see if Valverde can do well under pressure to help his side start the series on a winning note.
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