Justin Verlander on Injured List After Hip Pain, Tigers Pitching Schedule Changes

Detroit Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander is now on the injured list due to hip pain, just days after his first start. This is a setback for his return to the team.
By Newsroom | Sports, Baseball |

DETROIT - Mere days after stepping onto the mound for his first start with the Detroit Tigers in years, veteran pitcher Justin Verlander has been placed on the 15-day injured list. The club announced the move, citing 'left hip inflammation.'

The immediate trigger for Verlander's IL placement appears to stem from discomfort that arose on Friday, culminating in a decision to halt his pitching activity after a Saturday session designed to test his hip. This move directly impacts his scheduled start against the Cardinals.

Verlander's return to the Tigers, a highly anticipated event, has been marred by immediate physical setback. His initial outing on Monday night saw him surrender five runs within the first two innings, a performance that itself seemed to echo a difficult grind on the mound from the outset. Prior to that start, Verlander offered little assurance about his readiness, appearing to 'practically shrug' when questioned about his game's current state.

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The veteran pitcher, once considered among baseball's elite, expressed a belief in his continued ability prior to this recent episode. His re-acquisition by the Tigers marked a significant rotation development, though the early signs of his performance in spring training suggested a challenging road, with an ERA of 7.04.

His game has been characterized by a focus on rhythm and a variety of pitches, including a splitter, slider, curveball, changeup, and sweeper. However, his inability to effectively land his curveball was noted in his recent start, and his splitter showed inconsistent results against different types of hitters.

Verlander's placement on the IL follows a period of roster adjustments for the Tigers, which also included the addition of outfielder Austin Slater on a minor league deal. The club also has prospect Jackson Jobe, a right-handed pitcher, on a rehabilitation path that could see him contribute later in the season.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Justin Verlander go on the injured list for the Detroit Tigers?
Justin Verlander was placed on the 15-day injured list because of left hip inflammation. He felt discomfort after his first start and a test on Saturday confirmed the issue.
Q: How does Justin Verlander's injury affect his next games with the Tigers?
Verlander's injury means he will miss his scheduled start against the Cardinals. He cannot pitch while he recovers on the injured list.
Q: When did Justin Verlander start feeling pain in his hip?
The discomfort in Verlander's left hip started on Friday. He tried to test it on Saturday, but the pain led to the decision to place him on the injured list.
Q: What was Justin Verlander's performance like before his injury?
Before going on the injured list, Verlander had a difficult first start, giving up five runs in two innings. His spring training ERA was also high at 7.04.
Q: What other roster moves have the Tigers made recently?
Besides Verlander's injury, the Tigers also added outfielder Austin Slater on a minor league deal. Pitcher Jackson Jobe is also working his way back from injury.