Justin Verlander addresses online photo hacking

CLEVELAND - Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander says he wants to keep his personal life private after nude photos of him and model girlfriend Kate Upton allegedly were hacked from an online account.

Verlander spoke to reporters Tuesday before Detroit played the Indians. Verlander initially refused to comment Monday after the FBI acknowledged that photos of Academy Award-winning actress Jennifer Lawrence and other celebrities were stolen and posted online.

Verlander knew there was interest in his side of the story and wanted to address the situation. He doesn't want any focus taken from the Tigers, who are in the thick of the playoff race.

Verlander says he's always had to block out distractions during his career. The former AL MVP is scheduled to pitch Wednesday.

The 31-year-old did not comment specifically on the photos.