Justin Verlander and Alex Cora Aug 22, 2023; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) reacts toward Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora (13) during the second inning at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
By Arthur Weinstein on

Justin Verlander shouted a nasty message at Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora Tuesday night.

While the brief NSFW outburst was surprising, it was even more surprising how the situation arose.

The Houston Astros ace began the top of the second facing Adam Duvall. Before his second pitch, home plate umpire Pat Hoberg signaled a pitch-clock violation. Verlander complained that he had a pitch-com problem, and after the bat boy brought him a new one, Cora came out to weigh in on the matter, likely to ask that the violation stand, despite the com problem.

Verlander shouted something twice at Cora, sounding like “I didn’t shake that at-bat,” but Cora kept talking to Hoberg.

That led Verlander to tell him, “**** off, Alex.”

Cora clearly seemed taken aback by the insult, but Hoberg stepped in his path and waved his arms, taking control of the situation.

Hot mics are everywhere in pro sports today, picking up even comments players make under their breath. Verlander didn’t exactly shout this at Cora, but he certainly wanted him to get the message.

MLB fans wasted no time reacting to Verlander’s nasty comment.

[Awful Announcing]

About Arthur Weinstein

Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.

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