New York Mets Injury Update: Justin Verlander

Justin Verlander provided an injury update ahead of the Mets' home opener on Friday.

NEW YORK - Promising news for the Mets' injured ace.

Justin Verlander spoke ahead of the Mets' home opener on Friday and provided an update on his progression, as he works his way back from a teres major strain.

“I feel like I really turned a corner a couple days ago," Verlander said. "The general soreness I was having is really dissipating quickly. All positive signs. Waiting for that to really completely go away before I step on the gas, but I’ve been able to keep throwing and also increase my intensity of throwing up to like 75%. I can’t give you an exact date but I feel like I’m really close to being able to take the leash off and start getting after it and build up.”

When asked if he'd be back before April concludes, Verlander said it would be the worst-case scenario.

The Mets are off to a 3-4 start on the season and their starting rotation is ranked No. 22 in baseball with a 5.71 ERA.

Verlander underwent follow-up imaging on Wednesday, which showed reduced inflammation. He has been playing catch since being diagnosed with the injury.

Verlander was placed on the 15-day IL on Opening Day in Miami. The hope is that he can return by the end of the month.

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