The Houston Astros are going back to ace Justin Verlander for Thursday's Game 5 of the World Series against the Philadelphia Phillies.
The Astros could have started Verlander in Game 4 on Wednesday, as the pitcher was coming off of normal rest since playing in Game 1, but are ultimately going with righty Cristian Javier.
Verlander struggled in Game 1, allowing five runs in five innings as the Astros blew a 5-0 lead. The 39-year-old is without a win and owns a 6.04 ERA in eight World Series starts. Still, he could get the ball for Game 5.
The Phillies, meanwhile, are going back to Game 1 starter Aaron Nola for Game 4.
Noah Syndergaard is expected to start Game 5 for Philadelphia unless he's used out of the bullpen in Game 4. The 30-year-old has started one game in the playoffs, going three innings in the final game of the NLCS as the Phillies eliminated the Atlanta Braves.
Watch Wednesday's Game 4 in Philadelphia at 8:03 p.m. on Sportsnet and SN NOW.
