Verlander was very impressive

[TRIPxCORE]

How many of you saw what Justin Verlander did in his first major league start against the Texas Rangers in their hitter-friendly park? He was simply overpowering. Comparisons to Felix Hernandez are inevitable.

[racosun]

Not only inevitable, but they're out there. Verlander has been rated as the second-best pitching prospect in the game, just behind King Felix. Justin's win in Texas was brilliant, but I won't allow myself to get too excited about that. After a few times through the rotation, the scouting reports will build up a bit and he'll get "figured out" better. Rough times are to come, as with all young pitchers, but he's definetly a keeper and I'm sure he's here to stay. I don't think it'll be long before he's considered our best pitcher period. I love the fear in hitter's eyes when they step into the box with Verlander or Zumaya out there. Those guys can throw some heat!

[racosun]

Justin got roughed up and rattled pretty bad today by the World Champs. He gave up two first-inning homers (another to Thome) and was put out of his misery in the third. Verlander gave up 7 runs on 7 hits over 2.2 innings, with one walk and no strikeouts. He's a young rookie, and this game will no doubt be a learning experience for him on his way to greatness. Hopefully the offense will take it's head out of it's butt and get him off the hook.