WASHINGTON (AP) — Justin Verlander allowed two runs and four hits over six innings in the three-time Cy Young Award winner’s season debut for the Houston Astros, a 5-3 victory against the Washington Nationals on Friday night.
The 41-year-old right-hander, who began the season on the injured list because of right shoulder inflammation, struck out four and walked none, throwing 59 of 78 pitches for strikes. Verlander averaged 94.3 mph with 35 four-seam fastballs and induced five groundouts. The nine-time All-Star retired the side in order four times.
Ildemaro Vargas hit an RBI single in the third and Riley Adams homered in the fourth, cutting Washington’s deficit to 4-2.
“It’s huge, just for the morale of the club and his leadership and getting on the mound and competing,” Astros manager Joe Espada said before the game. “We are all excited about that and what he means to this team for so many years. The guys are pretty excited about having him on the mound.”
'The Full English will never die out!' Greasy spoon fans speak up for the Great British Fry
ACWF Honors Role Model Families and Outstanding Groups, Individuals in Family Work
First National Family Education Publicity Week Launched
Nine unforgettable moments from the Hangzhou Asian Para Games
Nice scores three as lax defending against costs Lorient
ACWF Launches Nationwide Mass Campaign to Greet 20th CPC National Congress
Senior CPC official attends meeting on planning of Beijing's development
Tesla recalling nearly 4,000 Cybertrucks because accelerator pedal can get stuck
Shen Yueyue Calls for Thorough Implementation of the Law on Family Education Promotion
US sanctions fundraisers for extremist West Bank settlers who commit violence against Palestinians
Chinese premier chairs meeting to solicit opinions on economic work