Source: Fox Sports
Summary
After the Dodgers beat the Braves, a moment between Justin Verlander and Freddie Freeman highlighted the night. Verlander joined FOX’s NLDS coverage with Alex Rodriguez, David Ortiz, Derek Jeter, and Dontrelle Willis. Yamamoto struck out 10 in seven innings, while Freeman hit a solo home run. After the game, Freeman spoke with Verlander, who asked about facing Chris Sale. Verlander retired in September after his final start, citing leg pain. He noted his pride in his career volume, with 557 starts and 3,560 strikeouts.
Our Reading
This one felt recognizable early.
Verlander and Freeman traded Hall-of-Fame talk after the game.
Freeman remembered Verlander’s final start, where he threw five innings of two-run ball.
Verlander asked Freeman about facing Sale, and Freeman called it a tough at-bat.
The game followed a familiar script: stars, history, and a moment that fans remember.
Author: Evan Null
Verlander’s Final Start
Verlander’s final start on September 27 saw him throw five innings of two-run ball. The three-time Cy Young winner and 2011 American League MVP got the win over the Orioles. It was a fitting end to a career that saw him start 557 games and strike out 3,560 batters.
Freeman’s Home Run
Freddie Freeman hit a solo home run off Chris Sale in the NLDS. It was a moment that showed his ability to hit against one of the game’s best pitchers. Freeman’s swing was described as a “good swing on the ball,” despite the difficulty of facing Sale.
Verlander’s Retirement
Verlander said his decision to retire was clear early in the season. He cited leg pain after his first start, saying he would play until the wheels fell off. His career included two World Series titles and a Hall of Fame resume.
Verlander’s Legacy
Verlander’s pride wasn’t in the honors but in the volume of his career. He started 557 games and threw 3,576 2/3 innings. He said he took the ball and was out there for as many pitches as the game would allow.
The Postseason Crew
Verlander joined FOX’s NLDS coverage with Alex Rodriguez, David Ortiz, Derek Jeter, and Dontrelle Willis. The group had 50 All-Star appearances between them. It was a star-studded set that brought together some of the game’s most recognizable names.
