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Justin Verlander Makes Progress Toward Pitching Perhaps 1 More Time in 2 Weeks for Tigers
Justin Verlander threw a mound session and could make a rehab assignment before one more outing as the Tigers plan a career celebration.
On Saturday, Detroit Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander threw from the mound at Comerica Park with live batters standing in, reaching 93 mph with his fastball during a significant step toward one final appearance.
After announcing his retirement plans in July, the 43-year-old has battled left hip inflammation and a left hamstring strain since early April, limiting him to just one start this season on March 30.
With 266 career wins and 3,554 strikeouts over 21 seasons, Verlander holds three Cy Young Awards and is a two-time World Series champion, making him the oldest player in Major League Baseball.
The Tigers have planned a two-day celebration of Verlander's career when hosting the Pittsburgh Pirates in two weeks, with September 25 and 26 set as official celebration dates during the final regular season series.
With just weeks remaining, Verlander continues pushing forward despite hurdles, refusing to end his career without pitching once more; Saturday's mound session offered fans and the organization hope they will witness the ace take the field one last time.