The Detroit Tigers are just one win away from the World Series after their 2-1 Game 3 victory over the Yankees Tuesday night. Ace right-hander Justin Verlander took his club most of way in Game 3, allowing but a single solo home run before handing the ball over to lefty Phil Coke to finish off the ninth. Verlander did not have his best stuff Tuesday night -- striking out just three in 8⅓ innings -- but still managed to hold the slumping New York offense to three hits on the evening.
Tigers fans rejoice in Game 3 win, unlikely hero Phil Coke
Jonathan Daniel - Getty Images
For Al Beaton of Bless You Boys, while Verlander’s excellence continues to amaze, it is unexpected success of Phil Coke in a shutdown role that has Tigers fans talking:
Before the ALCS began, no one, and I mean no one, could have predicted a huge reason why the Tigers are one game away from the World Series is Phil Coke saving back-to-back games...
Sure, unheralded players have stepped up in the playoffs before. But, Phil Coke? Not one, but two saves? Really? I’m at a loss for words.
Well, I do have six.
Baseball sure is a funny game.
Max Scherzer will take the mound for the Tigers Wednesday night to try to lead his club to an ALCS sweep of the Bronx Bombers. The Yankees will counter with their ace, CC Sabathia, to stave off elimination for at least one more day.
Game 4 will begin at 8 p.m. ET Wednesday and will be aired on TBS.
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