New York Mets' Justin Verlander Making Progress in Return From Injury

The New York Mets are reportedly getting closer to the season debut of ace pitcher Justin Verlander. He's been out since right before Opening Day with a strain of the right teres minor but Mets manager Buck Showalter says that Verlander threw a bullpen that went well and that he will throw another one. The Mets are currently 8-6 and in second place in the National League East.

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).

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).

Plus, Tommy Hunter is "not too far away."

— Sonja Chen 陈星雅 (@SonjaMChen) April 15, 2023

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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