After battling for months, the 12 MLB teams made it to the playoffs. With that, the focus has now shifted to the postseason, in which The Houston Astros would look to defend their title. Notably, this is the seventh straight time the Stars have made it to the playoffs. But the road was not easy. They needed a last-ditch effort to claim their spot from everyone, including the $87 million ace Justin Verlander.

Given Verlander was not in Houston, his World Series appearance looked unlikely. But a mid-season move changed this. Leaving behind his New York Mets, the star pitcher shined under Dusty Baker. However, the shadows of Verlander’s New York struggles still follow him, even after doing great. Baker’s remarks became the focus of the latest interview after they finished the league stage successfully..

Dusty Baker Trolls One of His Oldest Disciple Justin Verlander After His Latest Performance

It has not been a great season for Justin Verlander since he moved back to Houston. The three-time Cy Young Award winner did well enough on the mound but was still under criticism from the fans. It also pushed him into the negative highlights, even after performing well.

But it all changed after the Astros resigned him from The Mets in the mid-season transfer window. Due to Verlander’s age and past run, they all criticized this move, but the 40-year-old proved them wrong. His latest performance in the must-win game against the Arizona Diamondbacks backed this too. The right-hand pitcher pitched five innings and claimed five strikeouts to win it 1-0.

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It was a moment for Verlander, who will make a postseason appearance. However, it also gave an opportunity to Dusty Baker to have a take on the pitcher. While appreciating the team for a cagey win, the 2022 championship manager had some words of fun for the senior pro.

Baker brought up many aspects of the game in conversation with the media. Although he congratulated the team for getting the desired result, Baker had an interesting answer when asked about Justin Verlander.

The 74-year-old said, “I thought he was on the Mets.” This reference pointed toward his New York problems. Rightly so, Verlander had a tough time but can have a sweet ending with another championship ring.

Verlander Eyes Second Consecutive World Series Title After a Shift of Gear

After winning the championship last year, Justin Verlander moved to The New York Mets. But it turned disastrous for the 2022 champion. The pitcher could claim only six wins in 16 starts, struggling with the consistency. But after his return to Houston, everything changed.

Verlander has won more games with a win percentage of 0.700 with a WHIP of 1.12. He has already claimed 63 strikeouts at a better K/BB ratio, returning to the best in the league. Due to this, he finds himself in the top 10 list of the players, making it to the playoffs. Moreover, in the last seven days, the 2011 MVP has recorded an ERA of 0.69 with 13 strikeouts.

Read More:- Star Astros Pitcher Dominates Former Mets Co-ace as AL West Playoff Race Heats Up

Given that the Stars have again made it to the postseason, the ace pitcher is in great shape. With every game crucial now, it is a great boost for The Astros in their title defense. But the question is: Will Justin be able to continue doing the same to help them win consecutive titles? What are your thoughts on it? Share them in the space below.

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