© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Tigers' Verlander learned from bump in the road

By AP

DETROIT – Detroit Tigers right-hander Justin Verlander says struggling in 2008 has made him a better pitcher.

That's not good news for opponents.

Verlander's first two seasons were exceptional, and he's putting together a second straight strong year.

He ranks among league leaders with an 8-4 record and 85 strikeouts entering tonight's start on the road against the New York Mets.

Verlander is the only pitcher to throw a no-hitter, start a World Series game, and be a rookie of the year and an All-Star in his first two full seasons.

He says his stuff simply went away two years ago when he was 11-17 with a 4.84 ERA.

Verlander got his groove back in time to get an $80 million contract last winter.

WKAR’s first live pledge drive since federal funding was eliminated is happening now. Our goal for the drive is $60,000 and reaching it will bring us one step closer to closing the federal funding gap.
Your support helps keep trusted journalism, classical music, and educational programming freely available for everyone in our community.
How can you help? Become a sustaining donor today. Already a sustainer? Please consider increasing your monthly contribution.