Verlander pulled in 4th inning of Game 4

Justin Verlander was pulled in the fourth inning of Tuesday's contest after getting tabbed for the pivotal Game 4 of the ALDS against the Tampa Bay Rays on short rest.

The Rays notched four runs on seven hits off the Houston Astros' ace, including two homers. Verlander also walked three batters before Josh James relieved him with two outs in the fourth.

The 36-year-old threw 84 pitches - 52 for strikes - to record 11 outs with five strikeouts.

The first inning was particularly perilous, with three runs scoring. Tommy Pham kicked off the frame with a solo homer before Travis d'Arnaud collected an RBI single and Joey Wendle tacked on another run with a double.

Verlander last pitched during the opening game of the series, striking out eight over seven shutout frames.

Tuesday's outing marked the first time in his career that he's started a game on short rest. Verlander rested for only three days between Friday's Game 1 and Game 4.

The Rays wound up holding on for the 4-1 win, forcing a Game 5 in Houston on Thursday.