Justin Verlander sets the wrong kind of World Series history

Houston Astros pitcher Justin Verlander made the wrong sort of MLB history against the Philadelphia Phillies in Game 5 of the World Series.

The Fall Classic hasn’t been kind to Justin Verlander, despite finally winning his first World Series with the Astros back in 2017. Verlander was acquired as the Houston ace that year — and he’s largely acted in that role for the Astros, minus during the postseason and on the game’s greatest stage.

For the most part, it hasn’t backfired on Houston. They won their World Series, albeit in sketchy fashion via some not-so-friendly sign stealing.

Game 5, however, is a monumental spot for Verlander. He must come up large in hopes of giving Houston a 3-2 lead heading home to Minute Maid Park where, should he emerge victorious on Thursday, the Astros would have two chances to win the World Series.

Astros: Justin Verlander’s Game 5 got off to putrid start

Justin Verlander’s Game 5 started in the worst of ways, with the Houston ace giving up a solo home run to Kyle Schwarber of the Phillies. It was Schwarber’s third career postseason leadoff home run, tying him for the most in MLB history.

Verlander, however, made the wrong kind of history.

Schwarber’s home run was the tenth Verlander has allowed in his World Series career. It broke a tie with Catfish Hunter, who previously owned the record with Verlander.

What does that mean? First, Verlander’s has plenty of opportunities at playoff success. With Detroit, he failed to win the World Series, but won several pennants. With Houston, he’s been back to the Fall Classic on a few occasions as well.

Dusty Baker, for what it’s worth, said he would not pull Verlander if he incurred some early struggles. He stuck to his word, and Verlander rewarded him.

Good faith can overturn the record books, unfortunately.