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Justin Verlander Nears One Final Start For Detroit Tigers

Injured Tigers ace Justin Verlander is making progress and hopes to pitch one final time during a planned celebration of his career in Detroit.

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Verlander making progress toward return

Detroit Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander is making progress toward pitching one last time before he retires. Tigers manager A.J. Hinch shared some positive news on Sunday. He said the veteran right hander threw harder on Saturday than he has in over a month.

The Tigers want Verlander to pitch during a planned two day celebration of his career. This celebration will happen in two weeks when Detroit hosts the Pittsburgh Pirates. It is the final series of the regular season.

Hinch said the team is aiming for that weekend. He noted it will be an emotional and important weekend for Verlander.

A tough season of injuries

Verlander announced his retirement plans in July. The 43 year old is currently the oldest player in Major League Baseball. He signed a 13 million dollar one year contract to return to Detroit in February.

His season has been plagued by injuries. He has only pitched once this year, allowing five runs in three and two thirds innings during a 9-6 loss to Arizona on March 30.

Verlander started the year on the injured list with hip inflammation. While recovering, he pulled his hamstring during a bullpen session.

To get him ready, the Tigers plan to have Verlander throw in live batting practice or a simulated game. Hinch said they cannot have a setback, but Verlander is going to pitch through whatever he can.

A legendary career in Detroit and beyond

Verlander has a historic history with Detroit. He played for the Tigers from 2005 to 2017, winning 183 games. He won the AL Rookie of the Year in 2006, and both the AL MVP and Cy Young Award in 2011.

He helped the Tigers reach the World Series in 2006 and 2012, and win four straight division titles. He also won two World Series championships with the Houston Astros. Over his career, he has 266 wins, a 3.33 ERA, and 3,554 strikeouts.

What it means for the next game

Colorado Rockies at Detroit Tigers (MLB, Sun, 13 Sep): Detroit Tigers win 64%, Colorado Rockies win 36%; projected score Detroit Tigers 5, Colorado Rockies 4. Our safest pick: Tigers to win.

Detroit Tigers at Toronto Blue Jays (MLB, Mon, 14 Sep): Toronto Blue Jays win 49%, Detroit Tigers win 51%; projected score Toronto Blue Jays 4, Detroit Tigers 4. Our safest pick: Blue Jays +2.5.