Justin Verlander is making progress toward possibly pitching one more time in the last year of his playing career. Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said the three-time Cy Young Award winner threw as hard as he has in more than a month off the mound on Saturday, calling it "a good sign."
The Tigers have planned a two-day celebration of Verlander's career when they host the Pirates in two weeks during the last series of the regular season, and they hope he can pitch. Hinch said, "We're aiming for that weekend, which we know will be an emotional and important weekend for him."
Verlander shared his plans to retire in July, shortly after he was added as a Legend Pick to the American League All-Star roster in his 21st season in the majors. He threw on Saturday with hitters standing in the batter's box but not swinging, to give him feedback on his pitches.
Verlander went on the injured list with hip inflammation early in the season. When he was nearing a return midway through the season, he pulled a hamstring during a bullpen session. He had been scheduled to pitch in June and make what would have been his first start with the Tigers at Comerica Park since Aug. 30, 2017, the day before he was traded to the Astros.
The Tigers plan to help Verlander prepare to possibly pitch by having him throw in live batting practice or a simulated game. Hinch said, "He's going to pitch through whatever, but we can't have a setback." Verlander, 43, is the oldest player in Major League Baseball.
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