UPDATE: Justin Verlander has just notched his 265th career victory in a thrilling performance against the Baltimore Orioles, throwing an astounding 121 pitches in just five innings. The San Francisco Giants dominated the game, securing a decisive 13-2 victory on Sunday, August 6, 2023.
At 42 years old, Verlander demonstrated his relentless spirit by striking out 10 batters while allowing only three hits and four walks. Despite his increasing pitch count, the Giants were determined to keep him on the mound as they led 7-0 in the fifth inning. Verlander’s determination paid off as he finished that inning by striking out key players Gunnar Henderson and Ryan Mountcastle.
Giants manager Bob Melvin praised Verlander’s work ethic, stating, “In a day you feel like you’re penalizing someone if they throw 100 pitches, to throw 120 in five innings, he didn’t want to hear anything about coming out of the game. There’s a lot to learn from him,” as reported by the San Francisco Chronicle.
This impressive outing marks Verlander’s third win of the season, improving his record to 3-10 and lowering his ERA to 4.29. It also represents a significant turnaround for the three-time Cy Young Award winner, who struggled early in the season with the Giants, remaining winless in his first 16 starts after joining the team this offseason.
Verlander’s performance today also highlights a broader trend in Major League Baseball, as he became the second pitcher this season to exceed 120 pitches in a game. The highest pitch count recorded this season was 126 pitches by Cleveland’s Gavin Williams on August 6 against the New York Mets.
Reflecting on his outing, Verlander expressed his mixed feelings, saying, “It’s hard for me because, especially the old school in me is, it’s only five innings. I’m not sure I go home and say that was a great start. End of day, I think they did a great job battling off good pitches and fouling off stuff.”
This game also marks Verlander’s first appearance with double-digit strikeouts since August 23, 2022, while he was with the Houston Astros. As he continues to find his rhythm, Verlander looks to build on this momentum, having won his last two starts, including a recent victory against the Chicago Cubs.
As the MLB season progresses, fans will be eagerly watching how Verlander and the Giants capitalize on this victory and whether he can continue to defy age and expectations on the mound.