Justin Verlander looking in confident mood ahead of spring training season – MLB News
Justin Verlander was one of the most successful baseball players last season. Although the Tigers’ ace has bought a sports car recently, he wants to concentrate on his game play. With more than 1000 career strikeouts to his credit, Verlander is one of the best starting pitchers in Major League Baseball right now.
Striking out 250 with astonishing 2.40 ERA and 24 wins, he had the best stats among all starting pitchers in American League. For his match winning performances, Verlander was awarded the American League Cy Young award. Performing consistently throughout 2011, he was also named the AL Most Valuable Players of last season.
However, with the spring training season starting in a few weeks time, the flame throwing pitcher is focusing on moving forward to make the most of available opportunities in 2012. The guy has a great learning attitude. Although he reached new heights last season, Verlander still sees a lot of room for improvement in his game play.
In an interview with a reputed sports website, Verlander said the Tigers have worked hard in the last few months to defend their AL Central title. If Verlander can maintain his stunning form in 2012, Jim Leyland's side will have a great chance to go on and win the World Series.
"Obviously, we are not going to sneak up on anybody," Verlander said. "Victor (Martinez) going down is going to be tough on us, but that's the name of the game. We're going to have to battle, but we've got more than enough guys that I think can fill the role."
"I'm preparing myself the same type of way -- the way I prepared myself last year," he further added "I took things very seriously in spring training and I'll continue that this year. I haven't gotten off the mound yet, but I started throwing the other day and everything feels good."
Commenting on Victor Martinez’s injury, Verlander said Victor was an integral part of the club and his injury is a big blow. However, the situation will not upset Tigers’ preparation as they look forward to go out there to get the job done.
Tags: