SAN FRANCISCO — Watching from afar, Bob Melvin assumed that Justin Verlander’s sustained success was primarily a product of his ability. Over the last eight-ish months, Melvin learned first-hand that Verlander didn’t craft a Hall of Fame career on ability alone.
“From the other side, you’d think it’s just the talent, that he just goes out there and doesn’t really even need scouting reports, just goes with what his strengths are,” Melvin said. “But he digs into everything he possibly can, including all the analytics.”
Verlander wrapped up his first season with the Giants by recording his fourth win of the season and the 266th of his career as San Francisco beat the Colorado Rockies 4-3 on Saturday afternoon at Oracle Park. Over six innings, Verlander allowed two runs — both on solo homers