If the Minnesota Twins want to continue their magical run, they’ll have to get through a very difficult task and a pitcher that has dominated them throughout the years.
Earlier today, Houston Astros manager Dusty Baker announced that 40-year-old veteran pitcher Justin Verlander will be getting the nod for the Astros in Game 1 of the American League Divisional Series against the Minnesota Twins.
Justin Verlander will start game 1 of the ALDS vs Twins.
— Will Kunkel (@WillKunkelFOX) October 5, 2023
Framber Valdez will start game 2.
A trade deadline acquisition from the New York Mets, Verlander has gotten off to a strong start in his second stint in Houston, pitching to the tune of a 7-3 record and 3.31 ERA in 11 starts.
Verlander closed out the season winning the American League Player of the Week award, going 2-0 with a 0.69 ERA and 13 strikeouts in his final two starts.
Justin Verlander: AL Player of the Week. pic.twitter.com/yOVXK3p3FM
— Houston Astros (@astros) October 2, 2023
Now, he will look to continue his playoff domination. The three-time Cy Young winner holds a 16-11 postseason record with a 3.64 ERA.
In 40 career starts against the Twins, Verlander is 22-10 with a 2.76 ERA.
First pitch is set for Saturday, Oct. 7 at 4:45 p.m. ET as the Twins will look to dethrone Verlander and the reigning champs and continue their Cinderella story.
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