Verlander Hits 3,500 Strikeouts in Giants' Defeat

San Francisco Giants pitcher Justin Verlander became the 10th player in MLB history to reach 3,500 career strikeouts, hitting the milestone by striking out the side in the first inning against the Washington Nationals at Oracle Park. Verlander, now 42, received a standing ovation as well as a congratulatory message in the stadium. Despite the achievement, he allowed five runs on 11 hits over five innings, and the Giants lost 8-0 as the Nationals collected 17 hits and secured their first series win since late July. Verlander now has a 1-9 record and a 4.53 ERA this season, acknowledging his struggles but comparing his pitching quality to his 2022 Cy Young campaign. The milestone places him just behind Walter Johnson for ninth on the all-time strikeout list. Despite a disappointing season, Verlander further cements his legacy as a future Hall of Famer.