Manager Bob Melvin of the Giants explains his decision to let pitcher Justin Verlander continue throwing for 121 pitches

San Francisco Giants Turn to Justin Verlander in Push for NL Wild Card Spot

The San Francisco Giants are making a late-season push for the National League (NL) Wild Card spot, and they're counting on veteran pitcher Justin Verlander to help them get there.

On Sunday, Verlander delivered a stellar performance against the Baltimore Orioles, leading the Giants to a decisive 13-2 victory in The Bay. Verlander pitched five shutout innings, striking out ten batters, and throwing 121 pitches. His ERA now stands at 4.29, and his win-loss record is 3-10.

Despite the less-than-impressive win-loss record, Verlander's performance on Sunday showed why he is considered a future Hall of Famer. Manager Bob Melvin spoke about Verlander's performance, saying, "Justin was outstanding today. He really turned back the clock and gave us exactly what we needed."

Verlander himself expressed his satisfaction with the game, saying, "It was never a question of whether I was going out for the fifth inning. I felt good, and I wanted to keep going." However, he also acknowledged that he is hard on himself, saying, "I wish I could have gone deeper into the game, but I'm glad we got the win."

The Giants are currently five games behind the New York Mets for the final NL Wild Card spot. They are relying on their pitching rotation, including Verlander, for an epic September to make a run for the final spot. Verlander signed a one-year deal with the Giants this season, and he believes that the team has the potential to make a deep playoff run.

According to Melvin, Verlander did not want to hear about coming out of the game, saying, "He was locked in and focused on the task at hand. I didn't want to disturb him." The Giants are hoping that Verlander can continue to perform at this level as they push for a playoff spot.

After Sunday's win, Verlander is now just 265 career wins short of the 300-win milestone. He expressed that he is proud of what he has accomplished in his career, but he is still driven to achieve more. He said, "I'm grateful for the opportunity to play this game, and I want to make the most of it while I can."

Verlander's performance on Sunday was a testament to his talent and determination. The Giants will need more of the same if they hope to make a stunning run to the final NL Wild Card spot.

Manager Bob Melvin of the Giants explains his decision to let pitcher Justin Verlander continue throwing for 121 pitches