Tigers fans won't believe Justin Verlander progress until they see him on the mound in a game

The Detroit Tigers finally got some good news on veteran pitcher Justin Verlander. He reportedly threw a 66-pitch simulated game this week, which is a big step as he tries to return after going onto the IL after just one start. But Tigers fans aren’t going to believe the good news until he actually makes a rehab start.

Verlander hasn’t pitched for Detroit since March 30, when he made his long-awaited return to the Tigers. It did not go well, as he allowed five earned runs and didn’t make it out of the fourth inning. He was placed on the IL shortly thereafter with a hip injury.

Simulated games are all well and good, but it’s a different animal entirely to pitch against another team and organization and try to get guys out and hit your spots. Then, it’s another step entirely to go from rehab starts in the minors to the big leagues.

The Tigers could really use a healthy Verlander back in the rotation because the rotation is currently reeling. Tarik Skubal is on the IL after undergoing elbow surgery, Casey Mize has dealt with some injuries, and Ty Madden has been banged up as well.

With how badly Detroit’s season has gone, Verlander’s injury is easy to forget amidst all the carnage. Not many were expecting the wheels to come off like this for the Tigers but there is still time to turn things around even if things look pretty bleak.

The 43-year-old Verlander is assured a place in Cooperstown one day, but it’s fair to wonder how he will look when he returns from the IL. He looked good in spring training and had a very solid season with the San Francisco Giants in 2025, but at this point in his career, injuries are a constant worry. 

Tigers could float Verlander as a trade chip if he comes back strong from IL

The Tigers know he’s not going to be the version of himself that won the American League MVP award back in 2011. But they have to be hoping he at least looks like the 2025 version of himself, especially since he was arguably San Francisco’s best pitcher coming down the stretch last season.

That could help Detroit get back on track, but it could also give the team a decent trade chip since Verlander is only under contract for this season, especially if the team opts to rebuild. Maybe a team desperate for a starter would be willing to trade for Verlander.

No matter what, it’s nice to see him making progress towards a return. But until he makes a rehab start, Tigers fans are still going to be a bit skeptical. 

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