Scherzer focused on controlling running game

BOSTON -- Tigers pitchers have had more than their share of struggles holding baserunners this season. Max Scherzer isn't one of them. His efforts to hold down the opposing running game, however, is an example of what manager Jim Leyland and his coaches have been trying to preach to other pitchers on the staff.

"That's something I always pride myself in, is to try to prevent the other team stealing bases against me," Scherzer -- the Tigers' Game 2 (Sunday, 8 p.m. ET, FOX) starter in the American League Championship Series -- said Saturday. "I know Boston does that. That's why they create so many runs, the ability to steal bases."

Scherzer allowed one stolen base over his two meetings with the Red Sox this season . His 14 stolen bases allowed ranked third in Detroit's rotation, better than Anibal Sanchez and Justin Verlander, while his eight would-be basestealers caught led the staff.

"For me, it comes down to the simple fact I've got to change my timing," Scherzer said. "I like to hold the ball [longer]. I think that disrupts the baserunners. You've got to be quick to the plate and you've got to change all different aspects of it. You can't be repetitive, because they can just time you and figure you out. So that's something that I'm always cognizant of, especially when you play a team like this."