Despite allowing six earned runs in his start, Verlander received a standing ovation from the Minute Maid Park fans.

"Listen, I think I came back from the neck injury a little fast," Verlander said Friday about the neck issue that sidelined him from June 10 to Aug. 20 ( via The Athletic ). "Obviously, I know the schedule,

Houston Astros right-hander Justin Verlander bent his head, smacked the ball back in his glove as he walked back to the mound. Astros manager Joe Espada met him there, letting him know he would not face another batter.