Giants' Verlander Wins First Oracle Park Start, Rises Ninth All-Time Strikeouts

Justin Verlander's 2025 season with the San Francisco Giants has been a challenging yet notable chapter in his storied career. Despite a rough start to the season, Verlander earned his first home win at Oracle Park, a milestone that eluded him previously, including during the 2012 World Series when he faced the Giants. His recent performance included a solid outing against the Chicago Cubs, where he pitched six innings, allowing two runs, and helped the Giants secure a 5-2 victory, marking his second win of the season and contributing to a three-game winning streak for the team. Verlander reflected on his career regret from the 2012 World Series but expressed optimism about the Giants’ current form and the importance of continuing to play smart baseball. He also surpassed Walter Johnson on the all-time strikeout list, achieving his 3516th strikeout, a record that brings him pride amid a season of ups and downs. While his overall 2025 stats reflect the struggles of a veteran pitcher, Verlander remains a respected and impactful presence on the mound for the Giants.