In terms of pure numbers, Justin Verlander's start Thursday at the White Sox was one of his worst yet. But his comments afterward suggest reason for optimism:
"Today, as funny as it sounds, was a step in the right direction," the Tigers ace said. "I thought my stuff was the best it's been all year. It was just a little erratic."
Obviously, talk is cheap. Until the results back up Verlander's claims, they're nothing more than hot air. But I see enough positive signs with him to hold out hope for a turnaround.
People have been quick to blame a drop in velocity for Verlander's struggles, but he was hitting 99 mph with his fastball Thursday. He averaged 94.5 mph with it, which is actually a little faster than the 94.3 mph he averaged with it last year. In his previous start July 20, he threw even harder, averaging 94.9 mph.
I don't think stuff is his issue at all. Considering his walk rate is the highest its been since 2008, when he compiled a 4.84 ERA, I think it's more a matter of command. He can get that back a little easier than he can lost velocity, and if he feels like he's inching that direction, I'm willing to give him the benefit of the doubt.