Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) was recorded on video giving Phillies fans the finger on two occasions. Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Astros SP Justin Verlander explains why he gave middle finger to Phillies fans

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 11/1/22

Though the Houston Astros and Philadelphia Phillies were unable to play Game 3 of the World Series on Monday night due to inclement weather, there was still a memorable moment outside Citizens Bank Park before the contest was scheduled to take place. As the visiting Astros arrived at the stadium on their team bus, ace hurler Justin Verlander was recorded on video giving Phillies fans the finger on two occasions.

The 39-year-old gave explained the interaction on Monday evening via Twitter.

All the context Darren… Whole interaction was in jest as all the fans around you were just saying hello in their native tongue. So I responded in kind. all in good fun. I enjoyed the banter. Also, nobody broke the window. Was just like that ‍♂️ https://t.co/PSk5jzK2nT
— Justin Verlander (@JustinVerlander) October 31, 2022

Verlander got the starting nod in Game 1 of the series, struggling across five innings while allowing five runs (all earned) on six hits with five strikeouts and two walks. Philadelphia ended up taking the opener 6-5 in 10 innings, before Houston bounced back with a 5-2 victory in Game 2.

The two-time AL Cy Young award winner is slated to start Game 5 of the World Series on Thursday at Citizens Bank Park.

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