Detroit Tigers Top 10 Most Memorable Moments of 2016

8. Justin Verlander strikes out 11 Astros in a complete game.

It seems like the Tigers were at their best against the Houston Astros. In the same game where Tyler Collins crossed home plate after the Jose Iglesias walk-off single, Justin Verlander pitched one of his best games of the season. On July 30, Verlander pitched his only complete game of the season. Not only was pitching a complete game an accomplishment, but Verlander also managed to strikeout 11 batters that day. He allowed two runs on five hits. He gave up one walk. He faced 32 batters – not too bad.

JV should always pitch on August 26. In 2015, he pitched a one-hitter against the Los Angeles Angels in a slightly more memorable moment than this one against the Astros.

Of course, the fans rewarded JV for his outstanding effort. He received several standing ovations throughout the season, but none were quite as large and loud as the one he received in the eighth inning of this game. Fans were wondering if he would come back in the ninth, and when he did, the crowd was amazed.

July was the proof that JV was back to full health. His .169 ERA in July was the best in the AL and rightfully, he was awarded the AL Pitcher of the Month.