Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander throws simulated game in injury rehab

KANSAS CITY, MO – Detroit Tigers right-hander Justin Verlander finally returned to a competitive setting.

The 43-year-old faced hitters in a simulated game Saturday, May 9, his first time since being placed on the injured list. He hadn't pitched against live competition since March 30 in his first and only start of the 2026 season.

This time, Verlander threw 38 pitches.

"I wasn't as sharp as I would like to be," Verlander said before Saturday's game against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. "Physically, it was another step in the right direction. Check the box and keep moving forward."

All eight batters put the ball in play in the simulated game, which lasted two innings.

The Tigers placed Verlander on the 15-day injured list April 4, retroactive to April 1, with left hip inflammation. The 21-year MLB veteran is expected to need at least one start on a rehab assignment with Triple-A Toledo before returning to the Tigers.

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Detroit Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander in the dugout during the eighth inning against Milwaukee Brewers at Comerica Park in Detroit on Thursday, April 23, 2026.

It's unclear what's next for Verlander, but he isn't ready for a rehab assignment yet.

In Saturday's session, Verlander matched up with infielder Hao-Yu Lee and outfielder Wenceel Pérez. He threw 17 pitches in the first inning and 21 pitches in the second inning, generating just four swings and misses.