Justin Verlander looking focused ahead of 2012 Spring Training – MLB News
Justin Verlander is one of the best pitchers in Major League Baseball right now. Last season, he displayed some high quality pitching skills to earn an incredible 24-5 win loss record. For his impressive and consistent performances, he was named the American League Most Valuable Player of the Year. He also won the Pitching Triple Crown Award, which is a rare accomplishment for a pitcher of modern age. Striking out 250 batters with a wonderful 2.40 ERA, he looked on top of his game.
Earlier this month, he was named WXYZ Sportsman of the Year. However, what is most impressive about Verlander is his ability to handle fame and pressure. The way he conducts himself on the field is inspiring and he is perfect role model for young pitchers. It was largely down to Verlander’s performance that Tigers won the American League Central title past season. The fans are also desperate to see the Tigers' ace back on the field.
In an interview, Tigers’ Manager Jim Leyland praised Verlander’s handling of a successful season. He further added, that Verlander has a done a great job to keep his focus on practice and training during the offseason. With Prince Fielder into the hitting line-up, the Tigers are looking stronger than ever before.
"I was impressed with his cooperation. He did whatever was asked of him. It was terrific the way he handled everything, being here, being there. There's a knack to handling success as there is a knack to handling failure. Some people don't handle failure very well, and some people don't handle success very well."
"I think it's exciting," Leyland said about Cabrera's move to third. "I think the Inge thing is exciting. “
Cabrera, who posted sensational stats last season, is expected to play third base and reports have surfaced that he has lost 10-15 pounds of his weight to be effective at 3B position. Verlander, on the other hand, will be hoping to help the Tigers make it to the World Series. He is a very down to earth person and he will have a crucial role to play for Tigers in the upcoming season.
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