DETROIT, MI – MAY 4: Justin Verlander #35 of the New York Mets watches from. the dugout during the sixth inning of a game against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park on May 4, 2023 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images)
MLB Rumors: Justin Verlander not a fan of new Comerica Park
Prior to this season, the Detroit Tigers moved their ballpark dimensions in to make it more hitter-friendly. For years, MoTown had featured one of the best pitchers’ parks, which makes Miguel Cabrera’s achievements all the more impressive.
Justin Verlander’s return to Detroit went well for the Tigers, but not for the newfound Mets ace. While he gave up just two earned runs in five innings — a good sign for New York — Detroit won the game behind a stellar performance from Eduardo Rodriguez.
JV reflected on his time in Detroit plenty this week, but before he left, he made sure to send a message to the Tigers front office: He’s not a fan of the new ballpark dimensions.
Per MLB.com, these were the major ballpark dimensions put in place prior to the 2023 season:
• The center-field wall, the symbol of Comerica Park’s deep outfield, will be moved in from 422 to 412 feet, and lowered from 8 1/2 to 7 feet.
• The massive wall in right-center field above the out-of-town scoreboard will by lowered from 13 to 7 feet in height.
• The right-field wall will be lowered to the same height, from 8 1/2 to 7 feet.
All of that is notable, and makes Comerica Park more amenable to the long ball, something Verlander found out the hard way on Thursday afternoon.