Houston Astros Ace Sets Next Bullpen Session
Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander is set to throw his next bullpen session on Sunday, according to The Athletic.
This could be a turning point for Verlander after a setback to start spring training. The Astros expect to make a decision about the right-hander’s next steps after that.
Verlander reported that he was dealing with a shoulder injury when he showed up in West Palm Beach, Fla., and the Astros determined that he needed to go slowly as he prepares for the 2024 regular season.
Verlander has thrown bullpens as he’s worked his way through the shoulder injury, and general manager Dana Brown doesn’t appear to be worried that Verlander won’t be ready for the regular season.
"No concerns about Verlander. He never stopped throwing the whole time... I think he is going to be fine,” Brown said to reporters, including MLB.com.
Verlander just turned 41 years old and he is coming off a 2023 that saw him start the season with the New York Mets before he was traded to the Astros at the deadline for two outfield prospects — Drew Gilbert and Ryan Clifford.
While Verlander was 13-8 overall, he was 7-3 with a 3.31 ERA with the Astros. He posted his numbers in 27 starts as the start of his season was delayed due to injury.
Verlander was coming off a 2022 in which helped the Astros win their second World Series as he went 18-4 with an MLB-leading 1.75 ERA. His 18 wins led the American League and he won the AL Cy Young.
He is signed through this season but has a 2025 vesting option that could allow him to return next season.
