Tigers Outline Rehab Plan for Veteran Pitcher Justin Verlander

Detroit manager AJ Hinch details the measured approach to Verlander's recovery from left hip inflammation.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 5:38pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a baseball pitcher's throwing motion broken down into overlapping geometric shapes in navy, green, and orange, conveying the measured rehabilitation process.The Tigers' cautious approach to Verlander's recovery aims to rebuild the veteran pitcher's strength without risking further injury.Toledo Today

The Detroit Tigers are taking a cautious approach with veteran pitcher Justin Verlander as he recovers from left hip inflammation. Manager AJ Hinch confirmed that Verlander will need at least one rehab outing, either with Triple-A Toledo or in a simulated game, before rejoining the Tigers' rotation. The team is prioritizing a structured rehab plan to monitor Verlander's progress and ensure he can return without setbacks.

Why it matters

Verlander is a key part of the Tigers' rotation, having won three Cy Young Awards over his illustrious career. His successful return is crucial for Detroit's playoff hopes this season. The measured approach aims to balance Verlander's long-term health with the team's immediate needs.

The details

Verlander, 43, threw a high-intensity bullpen session on Saturday, marking clear progress in his recovery. However, the Tigers remain committed to a step-by-step process, with Hinch stating that Verlander will not come right off the injured list into the rotation. The team plans to send him on a rehab assignment to Triple-A Toledo or have him throw a simulated game to closely monitor his condition before activating him.

  • Verlander threw a bullpen session on Saturday.
  • The Tigers will send Verlander on a rehab assignment before activating him.

The players

Justin Verlander

A 43-year-old veteran pitcher for the Detroit Tigers who is dealing with left hip inflammation and is currently on the injured list.

AJ Hinch

The manager of the Detroit Tigers, who is overseeing Verlander's recovery and rehab plan.

Keider Montero

A Tigers pitcher who recently threw six shutout innings with seven strikeouts in a game, helping to ease the immediate pressure on the rotation during Verlander's absence.

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What they’re saying

“AJ Hinch said Justin Verlander won't come right off the IL into the rotation. He's going to need at least one rehab outing, whether it's a sim game or a Triple-A start.”

— AJ Hinch, Manager, Detroit Tigers

What’s next

The Tigers will monitor Verlander's progress closely during his rehab assignment, and his response to game action will determine how quickly he can rejoin the rotation and resume a consistent workload this season.

The takeaway

The Tigers' measured approach to Verlander's recovery highlights the importance of prioritizing a player's long-term health, even for a veteran star, in order to ensure a successful return and maintain the team's playoff aspirations.