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Verlander Returns Then Gets Injured
Verlander's return was derailed after just one start when he was placed on the 15-day injured list with left hip inflammation.
“Verlander was placed on the 15-day injured list with left hip inflammation”
He gave up five runs and six hits in 3 2/3 innings in his season opener against Arizona.
The hip issue is believed to have started during that outing.
Keider Montero was recalled from Triple-A to fill Verlander's rotation spot.
Hip Issue May Stem From Mechanical Tweaks
Verlander had acknowledged ongoing mechanical adjustments focused on hip and head position.
Regional reports highlighted he was working on staying in line a little bit longer.
The hip inflammation appears to be a byproduct of these adjustments.
Sports Illustrated framed this as a nagging injury adding to a growing list.
Verlander's Age and Injury History Loom
Verlander is the oldest active player in MLB and the franchise leader in multiple categories.
“Verlander has been placed on the IL five times in the last four seasons”
He had been placed on the IL five times in the last four seasons.
This latest setback adds uncertainty to his potentially final season.
He was signed to a one-year, $13 million contract in February.
Montero To Step Into Rotation
The Tigers turned to Keider Montero, a 25-year-old right-hander.
Montero had been optioned to Triple-A in early March.
He is the likely No. 6 starter in Detroit's rotation.
His performance will be significant for the Tigers as they adjust.