Justin Verlander, a name that just screams pitching excellence, is fighting to find his groove again after an injury-filled 2023 season. On Wednesday night, the 42-year-old three-time Cy Young Award winner finally returned to the mound for the San Francisco Giants.
He faced the Cleveland Guardians and, honestly, fans saw both flashes of his old brilliance and the hurdles he still has to clear. The outing felt like a real test, not just for Verlander, but for what the Giants can expect from him going forward.
Justin Verlander’s Performance Against the Guardians
Verlander took the ball for his first MLB outing since May 18. He managed 4â…” innings, gave up four runs (three earned) on seven hits, and struck out six.
He only walked one batter and threw 83 pitches, 56 for strikes. It wasn’t classic Verlander, but it’s part of his grind back from injury.
The fourth inning got messy. Second baseman Tyler Fitzgerald made an error, and Cleveland’s Daniel Schneemann jumped on it with a three-run homer.
Those unearned runs made Verlander’s numbers look worse, but the Giants’ defense didn’t do him any favors. Manager Bob Melvin still sounded hopeful, blaming more of the trouble on sloppy play than anything wrong with Verlander’s arm.
Why This Start Still Matters
Verlander left the game still winless (0-4) this season with a 4.45 ERA in 11 starts. But this outing was really about seeing if he’s ready after that strained right pectoral muscle.
At 42, he’s still showing a stubborn kind of resilience. The night wasn’t all about stats—it felt like laying the groundwork for something better down the line.
Mental and Physical Battles: Verlander’s Candid Acknowledgment
His return tested more than just his body. Verlander admitted after the game that he felt healthy, which matters a ton as he lines up for more starts.
This season hasn’t gone as planned. He signed a one-year, $15 million deal with San Francisco in January, but the ride’s been bumpy.
Still, his drive is obvious. With 251 career wins, he’s inching toward that almost mythical 300-win mark—something you just don’t see much anymore.
The Rest of the Lineup Steps Up
There was a bright spot for the Giants: catcher Patrick Bailey returned from a neck strain and knocked out two singles.
That gave the lineup a bit of a lift. On the other hand, Fitzgerald’s defensive slip just underscored how crucial it is to back up a veteran like Verlander.
What’s Next for Verlander and the Giants?
This start was just one step. The Giants and Verlander are gearing up for the final stretch, and you get the sense there’s still a decent story left to write.
Manager Bob Melvin wants to see progress, both from Verlander and a defense that needs to tighten up if they’re going to make a run.
How the Giants use Verlander down the stretch will be interesting. Playoff hopes are still flickering, so they’ll want more from their marquee signing.
For Verlander, these last games are a shot to prove he’s still got it, find his rhythm, and maybe set up something bigger for next year—if he wants it.
Key Takeaways
- Stat Line: Verlander gave up four runs (three earned) over 4â…” innings. He struck out six and walked one.
- Defensive Issues: Second baseman Tyler Fitzgerald made a costly error. That mistake helped Cleveland build momentum.
- Recovery Progress: Verlander battled a strained right pectoral muscle earlier in the year. After the game, he said he feels physically healthy now.
- Future Outlook: Verlander’s still winless at 0-4 with a 4.45 ERA. He’s got chances left to finish strong, and maybe—just maybe—he’ll chase that 300-win milestone next season.
Verlander’s 2023 season hasn’t been easy, but he keeps pushing forward. His return really shows the grit and stubbornness that’s made him who he is.
The Giants still need to step up and help their veteran ace. His comeback story isn’t done yet, and honestly, fans can’t help but keep an eye on what happens next.
Here is the source article for this story: Giants’ winless Verlander back after month on IL
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