Justin Verlander Reveals the Challenges of Sharing Opening Day Duty With New York Mets Ace Max Scherzer

After hoisting the World Series trophy with the Houston Astros last season, Justin Verlander made a move that no one was expecting. He signed a two-year deal with the New York Mets. And though the Mets are still in the process of finalizing their opening-day roster and rotation, it’s apparent that the three-time Cy-young Award winner will be a core member of their pitching staff. 

The veteran pitcher recently started the team’s final Spring Training game, throwing 95 pitches over 5 innings. He is now set to start the Mets’ home opener on the third day of the regular season at Citi Field. When asked about the opportunity to pitch in the team’s first home game as an opener, the 40-year-old gave an interesting and humble response. 

Justin Verlander remains humble as he gears up to open New York Met’s first home game 

Justin Verlander has been given the opportunity to take the mound as the starting pitcher for the New York Mets’ home opener. However, the right-hander’s reply, when asked what he thought about the chance presented to him, was surprisingly humble. He revealed he didn’t want to force anyone’s hand and acknowledged that he already enjoyed the privilege of pitching in several opening-day games throughout his career. 

Interestingly, Verlander further confessed that some of his most enjoyable opening day experiences were the ones where he didn’t have to pitch. Instead, he could sit back, enjoy, and soak up the atmosphere. 

READ MORE: $140 Million Worth MLB Superstar Mike Trout Teases a ‘Super Exciting’ Secret Along With His Family

He then spoke about his admiration for fellow ace pitcher Max Scherzer, who is set to pitch on Opening Day 23, marking his 7th career opening start. He revealed that he was looking forward to watching Scherzer display his Hall of Fame-like pitching skills. “I’m really looking forward to watching Max [Scherzer] take the ball, honestly. Hall of Fame pitch on Opening Day and I get to sit in the dugout and watch him pitch so and enjoy the festivities, which is something I try to cherish if I’m not pitching in the game. So it’s a – to have a home opener in the backside of that is an honor as well and something I’m very much looking forward to.”

The ace is giving it his all! 

Justin Verlander then talked about how, as a new Met, he has been working hard to introduce himself to the fanbase. He then made a promise to them that he will always give his best effort every time he steps out onto the field. 

In his most recent outing as an opener in the last Spring Training match, he gave up three runs on eight hits, while in his previous start, he allowed two runs on just two hits. However, the ace remains optimistic as he is taking the experience to fine-tune his techniques. Let’s wait and see what the ace has up his sleeve as an opener for the team.

WATCH THIS STORY: MLB Best Bat Flips