Detroit Tigers’ right-handed pitcher Justin Verlander is set to make his return to the mound on Tuesday, pitching for the Triple-A Toledo Mud Hens. This appearance marks Verlander’s first competitive game since suffering a left hip injury in late March.
The 43-year-old, who has been a pivotal figure in Major League Baseball with accolades including three Cy Young Awards, has been on the 15-day injured list since April 4 due to left hip inflammation. Verlander has already completed two simulated games as part of his recovery process.
Verlander’s upcoming game against Iowa in Des Moines will be his first since a challenging outing on March 30, where he allowed five runs on six hits over 3 2/3 innings during Detroit’s loss to Arizona. This was his only appearance in what is now his 21st season.
Manager’s Perspective
Tigers’ manager A.J. Hinch expressed optimism about Verlander’s progress, stating, “Getting him into competition is something that we’ve been pushing for and he’s been pushing for.” Hinch emphasized the importance of Verlander experiencing the dynamics of a real game, including managing pitch counts and the natural ups and downs of a start.
Verlander has built up to approximately 70 pitches in preparation for his rehab assignment. However, the timeline for his return to the major league roster remains uncertain. He is scheduled to return to Detroit on Wednesday to meet with the team after their road trip to Tampa.
“I’m happy that he’s getting to that next step,” Hinch added, highlighting the uncertainty around how many innings Verlander will pitch during his rehab.
Team Roster Updates
In related team news, the Tigers have activated outfielder/designated hitter Kerry Carpenter from the 10-day injured list. Carpenter had been sidelined with a left shoulder sprain sustained on May 10 during a game against the Kansas City Royals. In a corresponding move, infielder Gage Workman has been optioned to Toledo.
Carpenter, who has been a part of the Tigers’ lineup this season, is batting .216 with six home runs and 17 RBIs over 37 games. Workman, during his stint with the Tigers, batted .158 with two home runs and five RBIs in 16 games.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
