World Series 2012: Justin Verlander will start Game 5 for Tigers (if necessary)

After lasting only four innings in Game 1 of the World Series, Justin Verlander is still slated to return to the hill for the Detroit Tigers if the World Series against the San Francisco Giants reaches Game 5, according to a report from Tom Gage of The Detroit News on Friday.

"He's coming back in Game 5, I hope," manager Jim Leyland said in the report before the Tigers' Game 2 loss on Wednesday.

Verlander pitched four innings in Game 1's 8-3 Giants victory, surrendering six hits and five earned runs along with two of third baseman Pablo Sandoval's three home runs on the night. Verlander threw 98 total pitches in his start.

Game 3 of the World Series is set for 8 p.m. ET on Saturday night as the series shifts to Comerica Park in Detroit for the next three (if necessary) contests. Anibal Sanchez will get the start for the Tigers against Ryan Vogelsong for the Giants.