MLB 2011: Top Players from each team in American League – Part 3
Detroit Tigers are being given a tough time by the Cleveland Indians this season but they have still managed to stay an inch ahead of their rivals in the American League Central division. The Tigers have not been, however, impressed on the road games and
this needs a quick fix as they fight their way to the playoffs.
Detroit’s success thus far can be attributed to Justin Verlander’s immaculate performance from the mound this season. The right-handed starting pitcher has amassed a tremendous record this season and currently shares the top position in the list of most
wins this season with CC Sabathia of New York Yankees.
Had it not been Verlander, the Tigers would not have managed to sustain this far in the season. No other player has matched Verlander’s class this season and the team would want him to continue exhibiting his skill on their way to the postseason. The Detroit
ace starter in just a whisker away from 100 career-wins and this milestone will surely act as a confidence supplement for Verlander.
This season also saw Verlander complete 1000 career strike-outs and is currently the leader in strike-outs for the current season with a significant margin. He is expected to top the list when the season ends given his fitness does not come into question.
Verlander has displayed his entire arsenal this season in addition to his vigorous arm strength which came to the glare of publicity in his two complete-game shutouts. Verlander will be a force to reckon if the Tigers are to proceed to the postseason.
Cleveland Indians are in tough contention to qualify for the postseason and Justin Masterson holds the key for their success. The right-handed starting pitcher has just three years of professional experience under his belt but has already taken charge of
the reins for the Indians.
The 6ft 6in pitcher from Jamaica has improved drastically on his career statistics this season which has helped the Indians to keep a constant eye on the top notch in the AL Central division. His fitness and form will be a key component in deciding Cleveland’s
fate this season. The lanky pitcher is throwing more than 100 pitches on average per start and needs to look into injury concerns which he seriously needs to avoid.
Masterson’s ERA is among the best in the AL and the Indians will want him to persist with this form to give them a fair run for the AL Central crown.
The Chicago White Sox have shown instances of brilliance this season and Mark Buehrle has been at the centre of them. Although the White Sox are placed third in the AL Central division, they have a fair chance of toppling the top two teams as there is a
very slender margin between the three teams.
Buehrle, the left-handed starting pitcher has recovered brilliantly after the All-Star break winning all three games since July 18 in which he got a decision. The 6ft 2in pitcher has colossal arm strength and this can be gauged from his average of more than
100 pitches per start. His ERA has remained in the decent range and the White Sox can count on him to produce more similar performances in their attempt to grab a spot for the playoffs.
Continued in Part 4
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