Justin Verlander accepts failure in ALCS Game 1 against Texas Rangers – MLB Update
The 24-game winning Justin Verlander failed to give Detroit Tigers a head-start against the Texas Rangers in Game 1 of the American League Championship Series, losing his first game at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, Texas after going unscathed in his three
previous career starts at an ERA of 1.29.
Looking to carry on with the momentum gained in the AL Division Series, the Tigers lost 2-3 against the Rangers after rain shortened Verlander’s start for the second time in the week. Earlier, Verlander was forced to give up his start in Game 1 of the ALDS
against CC Sabathia of New York Yankees after rain postponed the game.
Having said this, Verlander was not in top form either. He failed to find precision in his spell and went on to leak three runs in four innings to finish the game at an earned-run average of 6.75. Prior to this, the AL Cy Young Award candidate had leaked
three runs over 21 innings pitched at Rangers Ballpark. He just could not deliver when it counted the most.
Admitting his loss, Verlander said, "I just didn't have it. My location wasn't very good at all."
Verlander, however, was upset by the rain interruption and articulated that he can win any game only if weather allows him to. After going 24-5 in the regular season, Verlander has failed to make his mark in the post-season. However, he will be upbeat to
avenge this defeat when the series shifts to Detroit.
Detroit’s manager Jim Leyland did not blame Verlander for the loss and said, "He didn't really have his curveball going for strikes. He had a tough time with it. I think probably trying to overthrow it a little bit."
Rangers’ left-fielder David Murphy praised Verlander’s effort and at the same time was sympathetic for his loss. Murphy, who scored the second run for the Rangers in the second inning, emphasised that at 100 mph, it is difficult to produce hits. However,
the team got hits just when required and the bull-pen then played their part in ensuring the win for Texas.
Max Scherzer is scheduled to start Game 2 for the Tigers against Derek Holland on Monday, October 10.
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