The Houston Astros got some disappointing news about one of their star players on Tuesday.
That is starting pitcher Justin Verlander, who will begin the season on the injured list.
It is far from ideal to lose one of their top starters before the season begins.
However, at least it was not an injury that Verlander just suffered.
He has been recovering from a shoulder injury and he seems to be feeling good.
But, the IL designation is more to give Verlander time to build himself up to start games.
According to Brian McTaggart, Verlander said he is frustrated but also excited about the way he is feeling.
“Would I like to be out there for Opening Day? Absolutely. Am I frustrated? Absolutely. Am I excited about the way I feel right now? Also yes,” Verlander said, per McTaggart.
Verlander: "Would I like to be out there for Opening Day? Absolutely. Am I frustrated? Absolutely. Am I excited about the way I feel right now? Also yes."
— Brian McTaggart (@brianmctaggart) March 5, 2024
Verlander is 41 years old, so his body no longer recovers the way it once did.
Still, he has been an effective pitcher every year he has taken the mound.
Even last season, he threw 162.1 innings with an ERA of 3.22.
The Astros will miss him in their rotation for however long he is out.
Even with this injury, there is no doubt the Astros should be one of the best teams in the AL this year.
They have a loaded lineup and some quality starting pitchers outside of Verlander.
Also, they added one of the top closers in baseball in Josh Hader this offseason.
It seems like Verlander should not miss much more than the allotted 10 days on the IL.
He has mostly recovered from his injury and just needs time to ramp up his arm strength.
The sooner the return the better for one of the top pitchers of this generation.
NEXT: Fans React To Today's Justin Verlander News