Written by ESPN News Staff at ESPN.com
The team with the best record in the American League just got a major reinforcement for its postseason run.
The Houston Astros have acquired right-hander Justin Verlander from the Detroit Tigers, boosting a pitching staff that features fellow Cy Young winner Dallas Keuchel.
In 28 starts this season, Verlander is 10-8 with a 3.82 ERA. Since May 30, Verlander has a 3.24 ERA with 118 strikeouts in 111 innings.
“On behalf of the Detroit Tigers, we sincerely thank Justin Verlander for his remarkable 13 seasons of dedication to the organization,” Tigers executive vice president and general manager Al Avila said. “Justin has been the face of consistency over the course of his career and a pillar for baseball in the city of Detroit. He is someone who I believe to be a first-ballot Hall of Famer. We wish Justin all the best as he starts a new chapter in his illustrious career.”
In exchange for Verlander, the Tigers received pitcher Franklin Perez, catcher Jake Rogers and outfielder Daz Cameron, the son of ex-MLB outfielder Mike Cameron. Houston will also get a player to be named later or cash considerations.
It was the second trade of the day for the Tigers, who sent outfielder Justin Upton to the Los Angeles Angels for pitching prospect Grayson Long and cash or a player to be named. Detroit is 58-74 and on track to miss the postseason for a third straight year.
Verlander is likely to make his first start for his new team next week, when the Astros go back on the road, according to ESPN’s Buster Olney. Because he joins the Astros before Sept. 1, he is eligible to pitch in the postseason with his new club.
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