Justin Verlander had an issue with his PitchCom device during his start on Tuesday against the Red Sox, causing a brief delay in the game while the problems were sorted out.
The announcers indicated that Verlander was initially handed a Spanish version of the PitchCom device when he first requested a change, which he sent back to the dugout in exchange for one in English, further extending the delay.
That didn’t seem to sit well with Boston manager Alex Cora, who came out to discuss the situation with the umpires.
It appears Verlander took offense to something Cora said, as the broadcast’s hot mics picked up the 40-year-old letting slip a not-so-friendly comment in the direction of the Red Sox’s skipper.
Cora could be overheard saying “You shook him off five times,” seemingly suggesting Verlander was not actually having any issues with his PitchCom.
“I didn’t shake that at-bat. F--- off, Alex,” responded Verlander.
"Fuck off, Alex."
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) August 23, 2023
Justin Verlander with some words of encouragement for Red Sox manager Alex Cora, who came out in response to a pitch-com issue. pic.twitter.com/EPQuh86dwb
Verlander ended up getting a usable PitchCom device and was able to get back to business on the mound after hilariously shooting down Cora’s protests. He proceeded to strike out two batters during the second inning and by the end of the fourth inning, he’d already tied his season high with eight strikeouts.
