- Associated Press - Wednesday, February 16, 2011

LAKELAND, FLA. (AP) - For Justin Verlander, spring training is as much about mental focus as physical preparation.

Verlander has been one of baseball’s most consistent pitchers, with an ERA under 4.00 in four of five full seasons. The main blemish on his resume is a penchant for slow starts, so the Detroit right-hander is approaching spring training with noticeable intensity.

Verlander has a career ERA of 5.02 in April.

Manager Jim Leyland says his ace has been “totally locked in” _ even with opening day still six weeks away.

Verlander helped the Tigers reach the 2006 World Series, but they haven’t made the playoffs since then.

Copyright © 2024 The Washington Times, LLC.

Please read our comment policy before commenting.

Click to Read More and View Comments

Click to Hide