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Justin Verlander of the Detroit Tigers throws a pitch against the Detroit Tigers in the first inning of Game Five of the American League Championship Series at Comerica Park on October 13, 2011 in Detroit.Gregory Shamus

Detroit Tigers ace Justin Verlander has been named cover athlete for the Major League Baseball 2K12 video game.

Verlander, the first Tiger to win 20 games since 1991, finished with a 24-5 record this season, helping Detroit to the American League Championship Series.

The 2K Sports' announcement follows the news that Verlander has won player of the year in voting by the Major League Baseball Players Association, becoming only the second pitcher to earn the honour.

"Justin's amazing performance this season speaks for itself," Jason Argent, vice-president of marketing for 2K Sports, said in a statement.

"Between his second career no-hitter and leading the league in virtually every pitching category, I can't think of anyone else but Justin Verlander to serve as the face of Major League Baseball 2K12."

Philadelphia pitcher Roy Halladay was on the cover of last year's game.

Developed by 2K Sports' Visual Concepts studio, Major League Baseball 2K12 will be available in March for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 2, 3 and PSP, Nintendo Wii and DS, and PC.

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