Justin Verlander ends his 16-start winless streak as Rafael Devers' two homers lead the Giants to a 9-3 win over the Braves on July 24, 2025. Read how.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Exhale, Giants fans. The weight is finally lifted. Justin Verlander, after 16 long starts without a victory, is back in the win column. In a performance that felt like a collective sigh of relief, the future Hall of Famer battled through six innings, and the offense, led by a two-homer barrage from Rafael Devers, exploded to give him the support he's desperately needed in a decisive 9-3 win over the Atlanta Braves.
16: The number of consecutive winless starts for Justin Verlander before his gritty, 7-strikeout performance secured the victory against Atlanta.
It wasn't just another win; it was *the* win. Justin Verlander took the mound carrying the burden of a 16-game winless streak, a statistical anomaly for a pitcher of his caliber. But against the formidable Braves, he looked more like his old self. Pitching a solid 6 innings, he allowed three runs but crucially kept his composure, striking out seven and letting his defense work. You could see the determination with every pitch. This victory wasn't just about improving the team's record to 54-49; it was about restoring the confidence of the team's ace and proving he still has what it takes to lead this rotation.
While Verlander held down the fort, the Giants' bats made sure his effort wouldn't go to waste. Rafael Devers, the prized acquisition the Giants paid dearly for, showed exactly why he's here. He was a one-man wrecking crew, launching two mammoth home runs and driving in four of the team's nine runs. His solo shot in the 5th inning broke things open, and he wasn't done yet. Fellow corner infielder Matt Chapman joined the party, adding a two-run homer of his own. All told, the Giants pounded out 11 hits in a relentless assault that gave Verlander a comfortable cushion to work with.
The good news wasn't just confined to the big league club. In a promising development for the organization's long-term health, the Giants' farm system has made a significant leap. After languishing at the bottom of the league, the system has jumped to No. 23 in the latest rankings, thanks in large part to a successful 2025 MLB Draft. First-round pick Gavin Kilen is already making waves, debuting as the team's No. 7 prospect after a stellar college season. This infusion of talent, with players like top prospect Bryce Eldridge and Josuar Gonzalez still developing, shows that the front office is building for the future, even after trading away pieces like James Tibbs III in the blockbuster deal for Devers. It's a sign that the team is committed to winning now *and* later.
Last night's victory felt like more than just a single win in late July. It was a statement. With Verlander back on track, Devers providing middle-of-the-order thunder, and a farm system showing new life, there's a renewed sense of optimism around this team. As the Giants continue their push for a playoff spot, this complete team effort against a top contender could be the catalyst they need to spark a second-half surge. On to the next one.
