Tigers Announce Justin Verlander Injury Update Before Marlins Game

Verlander, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, returned to Detroit this offseason after spending time with the Houston Astros, New York Mets and the San Francisco Giants. The Tigers signed him for a one-year, $13 million deal with the expectation that he could anchor a rotation in the midst of a rebuild while also providing a veteran presence in the clubhouse. Last year with San Francisco, he posted a 3.85 ERA in 29 starts. 

A bullpen session represents a meaningful step in the recovery process, allowing the team’s medical staff to evaluate how Verlander’s hip responds to competitive throwing before any decision is made about a rehab assignment or activation ahead of April 16. At 43, Verlander is the oldest active player in MLB, making the Tigers’ handling of his workload and recovery a priority.  

Verlander spent the first 13 years of his MLB career in Detroit from 2005 to 2017, then had stints with the Astros, Mets and Giants. His return to Comerica Park this offseason carried notable significance for a franchise that is leaning on his experience to guide a young rotation through a rebuild. 

Friday’s update also included notes on several other players. Outfielder Parker Meadows sustained a left forearm fracture and a concussion during Thursday’s game. Right-hander Jackson Jobe, who is recovering from right UCL reconstruction, resumed his throwing program Thursday after a scheduled rest period.

 Right-handers Beau Brieske and Troy Melton each completed bullpen sessions on Friday. Left-hander Bailey Horn is scheduled to pitch on a rehab assignment with Low-A Lakeland on Saturday, infielder Trey Sweeney received a PRP injection for right shoulder soreness, and right-hander Reese Olson continues daily rehab for a right shoulder labral repair. 

If Saturday’s bullpen session goes cleanly, the Tigers will have a clear target for his return with April 16 on the calendar.