Astros to Start Justin Verlander on Short Rest in Game 4
By Ryan Giglio
It was no secret that the Rays would have a tough time against the dominant Astros rotation in their ALDS matchup. And if Tampa's Game 3 victory gave the team hope for a series comeback, their spirits surely dropped after Houston announced Justin Verlander will start Game 4 on short rest.
The legendary ace will aim to end the best-of-five series on Tuesday.
Tomorrow is #JVDay pic.twitter.com/C5wbTMaRRD
— Houston Astros (@astros) October 7, 2019
Verlander is one of the best postseason pitchers in MLB history, and his stats are even more impressive in potential series-clinching games. In four appearances, the 36-year-old has a 1.05 ERA with 30 punch-outs in 25.2 innings.
Justin Verlander in 4 career appearances (3 starts) when his team has a chance to clinch a postseason series:
— Sarah Langs (@SlangsOnSports) October 7, 2019
1.05 ERA in 25 2/3 IP
30 strikeouts, 4 walks
Resurgent lefty Wade Miley could have been an option to start, but those chances died once he tossed 2.2 innings in relief on Monday.
Four Astros relievers combined to toss 4.1 innings after Zack Greinke allowed six runs in just 3.2 innings in Game 3.
Houston will no doubt hope JV can stomp on Tampa's throat by dominating deep into the ballgame, giving the team extra rest before a potential third straight ALCS appearance.