Rick Porcello is in to face the Rangers for the bottom of the fifth. After two lengthy rain delays, Jim Leyland was understandably wary about sending Justin Verlander out to finish his outing. It’s not like Verlander was especially sharp before the rain delay, so if Leyland’s decision wasn’t easy before, it sure as heck was after the second rain delay.
Rangers vs. Tigers: Rick Porcello In, So Who Pitches Game 4?
But if Porcello comes in, who picks up Game 4? Verlander? Leyland has adamantly refused to start his ace on short rest, and his restraint is admirable. But Verlander did only throw four innings, albeit with 82 pitches
Porcello? He could throw an inning and come back on three-day’s rest with out CPS getting involved, right?
Brad Penny? I can’t ... there’s no ... this is the ALCS, man ... Brad Penny, no, come on. My evidence is this: Brad Penny
If I had to guess, I’d wager that the circumstances will dictate what happens. Tigers up 3-0 in the series? Penny. Maybe Porcello if he doesn’t work hard. Tigers in need of a win? Verlander. Short rest isn’t something Leyland wants to do, but I can see him talking himself into it considering that Verlander didn’t have an eight-inning, 120-marathon outing on Saturday.
See More:
