Justin Verlander Undergoes Core Muscle Repair Surgery

Oct 15, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) throws against the Boston Red Sox during the fourth inning in game three of the American League Championship Series baseball game at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

Seemingly out of nowhere, the Detroit Tigers official twitter account drops a bombshell of a report:

Justin Verlander underwent successful core muscle repair surgery this morning. #Tigers
— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) January 9, 2014

He will undergo physical rehabilitation for the next six weeks and will be reevaluated at the end of that time. #Tigers
— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) January 9, 2014

“We fully anticipate Justin to participate in spring training and be in a position to compete at the beginning of the 2014 season." - DD
— Detroit Tigers (@tigers) January 9, 2014

The injury was suffered during workouts last month, the Tigers were apparently able to keep the news under wraps until today.

Six weeks from today takes us to February 20, so Justin looks to have plenty of time to fully heal and then work himself back into game shape. The Tigers’ first full-team workout is scheduled for February 18 with pitchers and catchers beginning workouts on February 14.

This serves as a reminder that athletes doing physical activity can get hurt at any moment, the Tigers were unfortunate to have a healthy rotation for most of the 2013 season (though unfortunate to see Miguel Cabrera hampered in October). I think we’re far enough away from the season that Verlander’s injury shouldn’t be cause for concern, but it’s going to get a lot of media attention during spring training.

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