The Oakland A’s have been patient so far — and their patience could pay dividends in the next couple of innings. They’ve forced Tigers starter Justin Verlander to labor through the first four innings, with 78 pitches, but the Tigers lead, 2-1.
Verlander gave up a leadoff walk in the fourth, but got the next three batters, including striking out Josh Donaldson for his fifth strikeout of the game.
Verlander is able to go about 120-130 pitches, so unless he’s able to get through innings more efficiently, it looks like he’ll only get through six innings or so. He’s only given up two hits and one run, but the three walks are atypical.
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