Tigers Struggle in Game 4 Loss to Diamondbacks

Verlander's return to Detroit uniform spoiled by early struggles

Mar. 31, 2026 at 5:35am

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The Detroit Tigers fell to the Arizona Diamondbacks 9-6 in Game 4 of the season, with veteran pitcher Justin Verlander making his first start for the Tigers since 2017 but struggling early on. The Tigers' offense also had issues, striking out 14 times against Diamondbacks starter Michael Soroka, including an immaculate inning in the 5th. However, the Tigers did mount a late comeback in the 7th inning, scoring 6 runs, before ultimately falling short.

Why it matters

The Tigers are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season and get off to a strong start in 2026. Verlander's return to the team was highly anticipated, but his early struggles raise questions about how effective he can be this season. The team's offensive woes, particularly the high strikeout totals, are also a concern that will need to be addressed.

The details

Verlander, making his first start for the Tigers since 2017, was tagged for 5 runs on 6 hits in just 3.2 innings of work. Diamondbacks rookie Corbin Carroll hit a home run and triple off Verlander. The Tigers' offense struggled mightily, striking out 14 times, including an immaculate inning by Diamondbacks starter Michael Soroka in the 5th. However, the Tigers did mount a late comeback in the 7th, scoring 6 runs on 6 hits, 3 walks, and 2 balks by the Diamondbacks' pitchers.

  • Verlander's last start for the Tigers was on August 30, 2017.
  • Verlander's next start will be on Easter Sunday at Comerica Park, televised on NBC's 'Sunday Night Baseball'.

The players

Justin Verlander

A veteran pitcher making his return to the Detroit Tigers after last playing for the team in 2017. Verlander is a future Hall of Famer who spent the majority of his career with the Tigers.

Corbin Carroll

A rookie outfielder for the Arizona Diamondbacks who hit a home run and triple off Verlander in the game.

Michael Soroka

The Diamondbacks' starting pitcher, who struck out 10 Tigers batters, including an immaculate inning in the 5th.

Dillon Dingler

A Tigers player who was one of the team's top performers in the game.

Riley Greene

A Tigers player who was one of the team's top performers in the game.

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What they’re saying

“Justin Verlander is a Tiger again, back where he belongs.”

— Jason Benetti, Broadcaster

What’s next

Verlander's next start will be on Easter Sunday at Comerica Park, televised nationally on NBC's 'Sunday Night Baseball'.

The takeaway

While the Tigers' late comeback attempt was encouraging, the team's overall offensive struggles and Verlander's early troubles raise concerns about their ability to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season. The team will need to address these issues if they hope to contend in 2026.