Justin Verlander looking in superb touch ahead of 2012 regular season – MLB News
Detroit Tigers’ ace Justin Verlander is looking in superb touch ahead of 2012 regular season. Winner of 2011 American League Central Most Valuable Player Award, Verlander has produced some great performance since the start of 2012 Spring Training Session.
Without a shadow of a doubt, Verlander is one of the most dynamic and promising pitchers in the Major League Baseball right now. Since making his MLB debut, the guy has improved his throwing technique significantly. Not only is he a down to earth person but he also has the ability to single handedly win games for the Tigers. What makes him an asset for his team is his never ending desire to learn new tricks of the trade.
The starter displayed some high quality throwing skills last season to win the Pitching Triple Crown award. According to a leading sports website, with his 24 wins, 2.40 ERA and 269 strikeouts, he registered his name in the list of all time greats of the game.
On Sunday, March 25 Verlander fought back brilliantly after making an ordinary start in a Grapefruit League game against Philadelphia Phillies. Giving up four hits and two runs to the first five batters, he struggled to pitch with accuracy early on.
However, after talking to Tigers’ pitching coach Jeff Jones, Verlander made a few adjustments in his throws to retire 15 out of his final 18 batters. Overall, Verlander gave up two runs and seven hits with no walks and three strikeouts in six innings, showing that he is a quick learner.
Tigers’ pitching rotation relies heavily on Verlander and there will be definitely more responsibility on his shoulders this season. The Tigers may have the likes of Drew Smyly, Duane Below and Jacob Turner in their pitching lineup but they will need consistent performances from their ace to make it to the World Series finals.
If Verlander can stay healthy and fit for the entire 2012 season, the Tigers will have a real chance to win their first World Series title since 1984. It will be interesting to see if Verlander can live up to the expectations during the regular season.
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