Justin Verlander's MRI reveals inflammation, no structural damage

An MRI of Detroit Tigers starter Justin Verlander's shoulder revealed inflammation but no structural damage, manager Brad Ausmus said, according to the AP. 

Verlander left his start Monday after pitching just one inning, complaining of shoulder pain. Ausmus said the plan for Verlander is just rest, and that surgery is not considered necessary. 

This season, Verlander is 10-11 with a 4.76 ERA, the highest of his career. The six-time All-Star and former MVP has five years and $140 million remaining on his contract, plus an option in 2020 for $22 million that vests if he finishes in the top five for Cy Young voting in 2019.

More: Power Rankings: Royals surging

The Tigers acquired another former Cy Young winner in David Price at the trade deadline, but the team is struggling with pitching injuries. Starter Anibal Sanchez strained his pectoral last week, and closer Joakim Soria pulled an oblique muscle Saturday. Detroit placed both on the disabled list on Sunday, and both are expected to miss about a month.

Detroit is 63-53 and in second place in the AL Central. The Tigers trail the Royals, who have won eight games in a row, by half a game for the division lead. 

- Alex Hampl