Veteran pitcher named Game 1 starter in ALDS

Earlier today, Houston Astros manager Dusty Baker announced that 40-year-old veteran pitcher Justin Verlander will be getting the nod for the Astros in Game 1 of the American League Divisional Series against the Minnesota Twins.

A trade deadline acquisition from the New York Mets, Verlander has gotten off to a strong start in his second stint in Houston, pitching to the tune of a 7-3 record and 3.31 ERA in 11 starts.

Verlander closed out the season winning the American League Player of the Week award, going 2-0 with a 0.69 ERA and 13 strikeouts in his final two starts.

Now, he will look to continue his playoff domination. The three-time Cy Young winner holds a 16-11 postseason record with a 3.64 ERA.
In 40 career starts against the Twins, Verlander is 22-10 with a 2.76 ERA.
First pitch is set for Saturday, Oct. 7 at 4:45 p.m. ET as the Twins will look to dethrone Verlander and the reigning champs and continue their Cinderella story.