Adjustment Delays
Houston Astros veteran pitcher Justin Verlander, aged 41, will miss the season opener due to a shoulder injury affecting his training progress. He has yet to make an appearance in spring training and is expected to start the season on the injured list, marking his second consecutive season missing the opener.
Manager’s Confidence
Astros’ general manager Dana Brown expressed confidence in the team’s starting rotation despite Verlander’s absence, highlighting the depth of their pitching staff and expecting a strong performance with Verlander’s eventual return.
Verlander’s Rehabilitation
Verlander’s training schedule has been delayed by approximately two weeks due to shoulder discomfort, forcing him to focus on bullpen sessions rather than facing live batters. However, he remains optimistic about his recovery and aims to return to the team in April.
Return Timeline
The Astros anticipate Verlander’s return in April but are taking a cautious approach to ensure his full recovery before rejoining the rotation. Brown believes Verlander’s pitching mechanics remain intact and expects a gradual increase in velocity upon his return.
Six-Man Rotation
With Verlander’s health in mind, the Astros plan to utilize a six-man rotation featuring Framber Valdez, Cristian Javier, J.P. France, Hunter Brown, José Urquidy, and Verlander once he returns, showcasing the team’s pitching depth.
Verlander’s Impact
Verlander, who signed a two-year, $86.6 million contract with the Mets last season before being traded back to the Astros, is a vital asset to the team’s rotation. Despite his age, his performance remains at a high level, with last season’s record reflecting his capabilities.
Verlander’s Acknowledgment
Verlander acknowledges the challenges of aging in professional sports but remains focused on contributing to the team’s success over the course of the season, prioritizing his long-term performance over immediate returns.
Verlander’s Reflection
Reflecting on his injury setback, Verlander acknowledges the limitations of aging in professional sports and the need for patience in rehabilitation. Despite the disappointment of missing the season opener, he remains committed to his recovery and long-term performance goals.
In summary, Justin Verlander’s absence from the season opener due to a shoulder injury presents a challenge for the Houston Astros, but the team remains confident in their pitching depth and Verlander’s eventual return.(JILIEVO)
