Yardwork: Justin Verlander Continues to Be Justin Verlander
By Tim Ryan
Blue Jays 7, Mariners 5 — Doug Fister started and, yup you guessed it, fisted himself again to the tune of five runs over six innings. I know we take pitcher wins and losses a little differently these days, but Mr. Fister is 3-11. It just wouldn’t be fun if Fister wasn’t awful.
Rays 2, Yankees 1 — For whatever reason it feels like these two have been playing for weeks. CC was pretty good (8 IP, 2 ER) but James “Phantom Punch” Shields was better. To make matters more unsettling for those with pinstripes in their veins (you may now vomit), Kyle Farnsworth notched the save striking out Posada, Nunez, and Granderson.
Angels 1, Rangers 0 — Jered Weaver went seven shutout innings and struck six. I supposed he’s in the conversation with Verlander. He really hasn’t had one bad start. Is it the hair? Is it the relation to Jeff? Is it because he pitches on the West Coast? I’m guessing it’s the Thunderstix.
D-Backs 4, Brewers 0 — Ian Kennedy has been great this year. Last night he pitched seven shutout innings, but I still firmly believe he’d be a mess in the AL East. Having said that, I’m happy for the guy. Would I rather have him than Phil Hughes? That’s a frightening question I never thought I would have to ask.
Padres 5, Marlins 3 — There were only eight games last night so I feel obligated to provide the scores of each showdown, however I know you don’t care about this game. Javy Vazquez went 4 1-3 innings and served up five runs. Sounds about right.
Cards 6, Mets 2 — Jake Westbrook limited the Mets to two runs over eight innings. It’s official, even Yoda is in awe of Dave Duncan.
Braves 9, Rockies 6 — Tommy Hanson pitched six and gave up six. He was also credited with a win.
Yeah, Jose is right back where left off. He’s looking at a seven-year deal: