CLEVELAND (AP) — Mike Clevinger grew up watching Justin Verlander dominate opposing hitters. Lately, the Cleveland right-hander has had the Detroit ace’s number.
Clevinger, who made it to the big leagues last season, outpitched Verlander for the second time in a week to lead the Indians to a 4-0 victory over the Tigers on Saturday night.
“It’s a little surreal,” Clevinger said after allowing three hits in six innings. “When he made his mark, I was 16. Any right-handed pitcher, especially, the second he got on the scenes, he had the 100 mile-an-hour fastball and the power curveball, that’s what everyone looked up to, wanting to be him.