Tigers plan for Justin Verlander amid injury recovery

The Detroit Tigers are taking a measured approach with Justin Verlander as his recovery becomes the focus of the team’s latest injury update. Rather than rushing the veteran back, the organization is prioritizing a structured rehab plan and its impact on the rotation.

Verlander will not return immediately from the injured list. Manager AJ Hinch confirmed the right-hander will need at least one rehab outing before rejoining the rotation.

The 43-year-old, who is dealing with left hip inflammation, threw a high-intensity bullpen session Saturday. While the session marked clear progress, the Tigers remain committed to a step-by-step recovery process.

The Detroit News’ Chris McCosky shared insight into the team’s plan on X, formerly Twitter, sharing how the club plans to manage Verlander’s return.

“AJ Hinch said Justin Verlander won’t come right off the IL into the rotation. He’s going to need at least one rehab outing, whether it’s a sim game or a Triple-A start. Verlander (hip) threw a bullpen this morning.”

The Tigers are expected to send the former three-time Cy Young Award winner to Triple-A Toledo or use a simulated game before activation. This rehab assignment will allow the team to monitor his condition closely before increasing his workload.

Detroit will continue to evaluate Verlander’s progress closely during this phase, ensuring he builds strength without setbacks. His response to game action will ultimately determine how quickly he can rejoin the rotation and resume a consistent workload moving forward this season.

The Tigers have benefited from flexibility within their rotation. Keider Montero threw six shutout innings with seven strikeouts in Friday night’s Game 1 victory over the Miami Marlins, helping Detroit open the three-game set on a strong note while easing immediate pressure.

Verlander remains a significant piece of the Tigers’ long-term plans. The organization brought him in to strengthen the rotation, but health remains the priority given his recent injury history.