Tiger Beat: Verlander Leaves His Best Stuff At Home, Still Wins

Tigers W 5-1, 23-17 overall, 1 GB from Twins

Set the scene: Verlander pitches a complete game ('bout time) allowing only 4 hits and 1 ER with 5 strike outs. Post-game conference:
"I didn't have my best stuff tonight," said Verlander.

Valverde, who apparently was within earshot (which means he was looking for Verlander, probably to beat his ass for taking Valverde's ninth inning spot), let's out a "WHAT?" that would make Little John jealous.

And he's right? What? You throw a complete game with 4 hits and you didn't bring your best stuff??? Alright big mouth, prove it. Yes, your May record has been impressive, 4-0 with a 1.50 ERA and 25 strikeouts in 30 innings, but if that's not your best, then I don't even care. They benched Ramirez in Florida for this same shit. If you're not giving 100%, then get off the field. You don't think Miner is just sitting in the bullpen, waiting to take your starting job? Guys like Boesch (who went 0-3 and is now batting a dismal .372 BA) and Worth (who went 3-3 last night) are busting their ass trying to make it in the Majors and here's you, coasting through life like an asshole. As Kirsten Dunst so elegantly said in the epic sports movie "Bring It On," bring it on already.

Cheers to Casper Wells for getting his first major league hit while filling in for Magglio last night as well as knocking in 2 RBIs. Seems like a friendly dude.