Tigers' Justin Verlander lands on IR, canceling Sunday's 'Must See TV' start

Detroit's future Hall of Famer was shelved with left hip inflammation.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 6:39pm

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Detroit Tigers veteran pitcher Justin Verlander has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to left hip inflammation, canceling his much-anticipated return to Comerica Park that was scheduled to be featured on NBC's Sunday Night Baseball.

Why it matters

Verlander's return to Detroit after signing as a free agent in the offseason was seen as a marketing win for the Tigers, but his struggles in spring training and his season-opening start have dampened the excitement around his homecoming.

The details

The Tigers announced that the move to place Verlander on the injured list is retroactive to Wednesday. Triple-A Toledo right-hander Keider Montero was called up to replace the veteran with 266 career victories. Verlander surrendered seven Grapefruit League homers and suffered the loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks last Monday, giving up five earned runs on six hits, including two homers, in 3.1 innings.

  • Verlander was placed on the 15-day injured list on April 4, 2026.
  • Verlander's return to Comerica Park was scheduled for Sunday, April 6, 2026.

The players

Justin Verlander

A veteran pitcher for the Detroit Tigers and future Hall of Famer.

Keider Montero

A right-handed pitcher for the Triple-A Toledo Mud Hens, called up to replace Verlander on the Tigers' roster.

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What’s next

The Tigers will likely have to wait until later in April for Verlander to make his first home start since 2017.

The takeaway

Verlander's injury setback has dampened the excitement around his highly anticipated return to Detroit, raising questions about his ability to regain his dominant form and contribute to the Tigers' success this season.