Justin Verlander is expected to make his Triple-A Sugar Land resume today, marking his first game since June 9. The Astros manager Joe Espada told reporters (including Matt Kawahara and Matt Young of the Houston Chronicle) that the loose plan is for Verlander to throw three innings or 50 pitches for the first time in what is expected to be a two-out rehab stint, though there is a lot of liquid built up. as the 41-year-old ace works his way back from a neck problem.
If all goes well, Verlander will likely be in the lineup for the start of the Astros' series against the Orioles beginning on August 22. Verlander will be the sixth member of the six-man rotation Houston plans to use during the busy season. schedule, as after getting three days off during the first 15 days of August, the Astros then play every day from August 16 to September 2. Assuming Verlander returns to his usual rotation form, he will be a big boost to the team of Houston is battling the Mariners for the AL West title, and will look to make another deep playoff run. Between this neck problem and a season-opening bout of shoulder inflammation, Verlander has been limited to 57 innings in his 19th Major League season, but has a solid 3.95 ERA when he's available to pitch.
More from the AL West…
- Julio Rodriguez He hasn't played since July 21st because of an ankle sprain, though Sailors The outfielder has been taking part in some vigorous running exercises as part of his recovery process. Manager Scott Servais told MLB.com and other media outlets earlier this week that Rodriguez's injury is considered a day-to-day situation with the team, as Rodriguez could be placed on the 10-day injured list without the need for reassignment. “Swinging is not a problem, from where [Rodriguez] said. It's more than just running and trying to get up to speed and turns, things like that,” noted Servais. As such, Seattle could try to use Rodriguez as a designated hitter if the team wants relief from his ankle. The uncertainty of ankle sprains and the lack of a timetable make it unclear when J-Rod might return to action, but it could be as soon as next week if he shows rapid improvement and can run well.
- Jacob deGrom threw live batting practice on Thursday, with The guards captain Bruce Bochy told reporters (including Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News) that deGrom will have another live BP session during the Rangers' upcoming August 12-14 series in Boston. It's deGrom's first time facing live batters during his rehab surgery since June 2023 Tommy John surgery, and the four-time All-Star remains on par with the typical 13-14 month recovery timeline. With a third bullpen session and a minor league rehab assignment, deGrom may not be back in the Texas lineup before the end of August, but the veteran should be able to log some big league innings before 2024 rolls around, and be profitable. peace of mind about his health heading into the offseason.
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