New York Mets' Justin Verlander Making Progress in Return From Injury
The New York Mets are getting closer to the much-anticipated debut of ace Justin Verlander.
Verlander, who was signed to two-year, $86.67 million contract in the offseason, has yet to pitch this season after going on the injured list before Opening Day with a right teres minor strain.
Manager Buck Showalter says that Verlander is making good progress in his return and Sonja Chen of MLB.com tweeted out a summary of his thoughts:
"Additional Mets injury updates from Showalter. Justin Verlander threw a bullpen that "went really well," so he's on track. Next steps are the same as Showalter said yesterday (another pen, live BP, then maybe a game).
We'll see if the 'maybe a game' refers to a simulated game or a minor league game, but it's fair to assume he might go on a minor league rehab assignment.
His addition will be a welcome one to a Mets rotation that is currently featuring Carlos Carrasco, David Peterson, and Tylor Megill.
Verlander, 40, has won 244 career games, three Cy Young awards and an MVP in his sure-to-be Hall of Fame career.
He went 18-4 last year for the Astros with a 1.75 ERA as they went on to beat the Phillies in the World Series.
The Mets are currently 8-6 on the season and are second in the National League East:
NL East standings:
1) Braves, 10-4
2) Mets, 8-6
3) Marlins, 7-7
4) Phillies, 5-9
5) Nationals, 4-10
The Mets are taking on the Athletics on Saturday. First pitch is 4:10 p.m. ET.
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