Justin Verlander has always been a special talent. The fastball in the high 90s and touching triple digits. The rare combination of size and athleticism (despite his height, very few pitchers have as quick feet on their pickoff move to first base). The instinctive feel for pitching. The sharp breaking ball and solid changeup.
And he did win 35 games his first two full seasons in the major leagues. But lately, Verlander has become a special pitcher. As good as any in the game special.
He has had trouble in Chicago in the past, but he could get big league hitters out in Williamsport right now. He is that good. Verlander was brilliant Wednesday night. The White Sox didn’t have a chance.
He has been - by far - the Tigers’ MVP so far this season.

Random Thoughts

- One game - Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals - can turn all the disappointment into adulation for two players above all others: Marian Hossa and Sidney Crosby. Their considerable reputations will be literally on the line Friday.

- Orlando played nearly a perfect Game 3 - and still barely beat the Lakers at home. Doubt the Magic will win another game in the series. Then again, I have been underestimating that team the entire playoffs.

My column in Thursday's Oakland Press about the Red Wings: http://tinyurl.com/nc2cgy