It should not have surprised anybody, Justin Verlander will start the 2012 MLB All-Star Game for the American League, after manager Ron Washington made the decision late Sunday evening.

In the past couple of seasons, Verlander has been the most dominant starter in baseball. He was voted MVP and won the Cy Young Award after having a 24-win season in 2011. 

He led the Detroit Tigers all the way to the American League Championship Series and continues to pitch well for the ball club in 2012.

Though only possessing a 9-5 record, his ERA is 2.58, he has 5 complete games and is tied for first place in strikeouts with 128 strikeouts.

You can ask opposing players and teammates, anytime Verlander steps on the mound it seems like he is going to do something amazing. Verlander has the stuff to throw a no-hitter every time he gets the start. 

What will be the most exciting part about having Verlander on the mound for 2 innings of the All-Star game? 

He will not have to wait until the 8th or 9th inning to light up the gun. 

Verlander has the reputation for getting stronger later in the innings. Well, he doesn't get stronger, but he saves his gas for the later parts of the game. 

Will he threaten to match Pedro Martinez's 5-strikeout performance from the 1999 All-Star Game in Boston?

Do not miss the action on Tuesday as Kansas City will host the MLB All-Star game.