Tigers Draft Verlander's Brother In 14th Round
LARRY LAGE,AP Sports Writer
DETROIT (AP) — The Detroit Tigers are giving Justin Verlander's brother another shot to become a professional.
Detroit selected Old Dominion outfielder Ben Verlander in the 14th round of the Major League Baseball draft on Saturday.
The Tigers drafted him in the 46th round three years ago out of high school, but he chose to go to college.
"It wasn't just one of those scenarios where they were just picking him to do the Verlander family a favor," the Tigers' ace said after Detroit beat Cleveland 6-4. "He earned this all on his own."
Ben Verlander hit .367 with 11 homers and 37 RBIs as a junior last season.
His brother expects him to skip his senior year to join Detroit's organization.
"I think he wants a chance to play professional baseball," Justin Verlander said.
The Tigers selected Justin Verlander with the No. 2 overall pick in 2004 and he has become one of baseball's best pitchers.
"Just to be drafted is an honor," the Tigers' right-hander said. "To be drafted to the team that your big brother's on is even more cool."
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