Justin Verlander earned his second win of the season as the San Francisco Giants defeated the Chicago Cubs 5-2 on September 12, 2023, at Oracle Park. Verlander, marking the 264th win of his career, pitched six innings, allowing two runs while striking out five batters. This victory also signifies the Giants’ first three-game winning streak since early August.
Verlander’s performance was noteworthy, particularly as he passed Walter Johnson for ninth place on the all-time strikeout list with his first-inning strikeout of former teammate Kyle Tucker. The veteran pitcher now stands just 15 strikeouts away from surpassing Gaylord Perry, who holds the eighth position with 3,534 strikeouts.
Giants Rally to Victory
Despite trailing 2-1 heading into the fifth inning, the Giants turned the game around with a strong offensive display. Their only run prior to the fifth came from Wilmer Flores, who hit a solo home run in the second inning. By the end of the fifth, San Francisco had taken a 3-2 lead, thanks to an RBI double from Heliot Ramos and a bloop single by Rafael Devers.
Verlander’s slider, which recorded an average velocity of 85.6 mph during the game, was a key pitch, even though it was slightly below his season average of 87.6 mph. He generated five swings and misses with this pitch, showcasing his ability to adapt on the mound.
After Verlander’s exit, Matt Chapman extended the Giants’ lead to 5-2 with a two-run home run in the sixth inning, marking Chapman’s first home run since July 27. The Giants’ recent success has come at a crucial time, as they seek to improve their standing with a current record of 64-68.
Managerial Decisions and Future Outlook
With Randy Rodríguez on the injured list due to a right elbow sprain, Giants manager Bob Melvin turned to right-hander Ryan Walker to secure the win following Verlander’s departure. The Giants’ strategy appears to be paying off, as they continue to build momentum in the latter part of the season.
As the season progresses, Verlander’s ability to contribute effectively will be vital for the Giants’ playoff aspirations. His recent performances indicate a promising trajectory, and fans will be eager to see how he continues to perform in the coming games.
