Detroit Tigers: Justin Verlander’s simulated game cut short

Detroit Tigers’ fans were no doubt encouraged that Justin Verlander would be pitching a four-inning simulated game consisting of approximately 65 pitches Wednesday afternoon in Pittsburgh, but it appears his day has been cut short.

According to the numerous Tigers’ beat writers in attendance prior to the Wednesday night series finale between Detroit and the Pittsburgh Pirates, Verlander and/or the Tigers cut the session short after three innings and 45 pitches.

UPDATE: According to Jason Beck and Chris Iott, Verlander reported “fatigue” and not pain in leaving the session early. He said his concern level is “lower now” and he threw all of his pitches in the first two innings but held back his curveball in the last inning. Interesting that this perceived setback is being taken in stride just like it had been when the Tigers announced he would not miss any starts more than three weeks ago. 

Verlander was facing the “potent” lineup of Andrew Romine, Hernan Perez and bullpen catcher Jon Murrian in rotating order.

Early returns were encouraging as MLB.com’s Jason Beck reported on his velocity.

The Detroit Tigers were hopeful of a strong outing for Justin Verlander today and if everything had gone to form, he could have been back in the rotation during the upcoming home stand likely facing the New York Yankees.

This does not seem to be an encouraging sign for J.V. but we will have to see what Verlander and manager Brad Ausmus has to say when the media is allowed into the clubhouse within the hour.

Should Verlander continue on the disabled list, it likely means the Tigers will call upon Kyle Lobstein once again. The beneficiary of the potent Tigers’ lineup last weekend in Cleveland, Lobstein picked up a victory, but was rather shaky, allowing three runs on eight hits with two walks and three strikeouts. Good defense bailed him out from allowing further damage.

Come back to Motor City Bengals for updates on Verlander’s status as they becomes available.

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