World Series - Vogelsong

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — San Francisco Giants pitcher Ryan Vogelsong believes God has guided him from baseball exile in Japan and the winter leagues of Venezuela to his first World Series start Saturday in Detroit.

The 35-year-old right-hander says, "I just believe that God had a plan for me this whole time, and he's shining down on me right now."

Success came late to Vogelsong, who was released by the Pirates, Phillies and Angels before the Giants signed him early last year.

Vogelsong says he believes God was using all those years of struggle to get him "prepared for this moment."

In this year's postseason Vogelsong already has won twice, and told reporters that he believes God is with him on the mound.