Verlander and Orenduff Reunite to Discuss Historic Pitching Matchup
On April 9th, 2004, Justin Verlander and I faced off against each other in one of the most anticipated college baseball games in recent history.
This game was unique because it was a showdown between two of the best college pitchers, both highly touted Draft prospects who had spent the previous summer as teammates on USA Baseball Collegiate National Team.. A matchup, ODU vs. VCU, conference rivals, that had everyone on the edge of their seats, a game that would go down in history.
The game lived up to its billing. We combined to strike out 27 hitters, both went the distance and ultimately Verlander beat us 3-0.
Jonathan Mayo, one of the now longest-tenured Major League Baseball (MLB) writers, did a feature on us leading up to the game in 2004. Twenty years later, he wrote a reunion article that explores our friendship, the epic duel, and our thoughts on pitching.
Here's the full article link with video interview:
https://lnkd.in/dKWDbv-N
One of the best memories of my life was walking out of Bud Metheny Stadium that night and seeing hundreds of friends, family, and former coaches and teammates.
The moment was surreal. Having just pitched in perhaps the biggest game of my career, I was encircled by all those who supported my journey. Thank you to everyone who came to the game.
Thanks to Jonathan Mayo and Justin Verlander for making this happen for the game of baseball.
