There's Nothing "J.V." About Tigers Ace Justin Verlander

As the American League Cy Young talks heat up, Detroit Tigers Ace righty, Justin Verlander, should be at the top of your list.

Boasting a 12-5 record, a 3.29 E.R.A, Justin Verlander's stock seems to rise and rise again since he won the A.L. Rookie of the Year in 2006. Not only is the two time All Star the "go-to-guy" in the Tiger rotation, he has become one of the elite right handers in the game today. His numbers this year are nothing short of impressive, as he leads Detroit into an exciting late season battle for the Central division. With the efforts put forth by J.V., and the rest of the Tigers staff, they cling to a three game lead, with the White Sox hot on the trail. Going into what looks to be a tough series against Minnesota this weekend, the Tigers will be counting on Verlander for a quality start against the Twins.

Justin leads the American League in strike outs, by a rather large margin, with 180. That's only 3 away from a career high that he posted in the 2007 campaign.

The American League is stacked with great pitchers. I can't help but mention guys like Kansas City's Zack Greinke, Boston's Josh Beckett, and the Yankees duo; Joba Chamberlain and A.J. Burnett. Last, but certainly not least, the Blue Jay ace, Roy Halladay. Everyone of these fore-mentioned pitchers are having stellar years, but there can only be ONE Cy Young winner. With the exception of Zack Greinke (10-7, 162 K's, and a league leading 2.36 E.R.A), and Roy Halladay (11-5, 134 K's, 2.75 E.R.A.), the rest of these guys have their team in the hunt for post-season play.

Justin Verlander is the glue that is holding his A.L. Central leading Tigers together. That's what constitutes a Cy Young Award worthy pitcher, and maybe even an A.L. MVP nod.

With the quality of pitching in the American League this year, it's hard to pick just one, I know. If you look at the stats, and who's really holding their team together, you must give it up for J.V., Justin Verlander.