Astros Veteran Verlander Scratched from Game Due to Neck Discomfort
Houston Astros veteran pitcher Justin Verlander was unexpectedly scratched from Saturday’s game against the Detroit Tigers due to neck discomfort. Despite being set to start at Minute Maid Park, Verlander was replaced by Spencer Arrighetti on the mound.
Manager Joe Espada revealed that Verlander had been battling this neck issue for the past few weeks and the team decided it was best to give him a break and try to address the problem. The 41-year-old pitcher is considered day-to-day, and there is hope that he may not need to be placed on the injured list.
Verlander mentioned that his neck had been bothering him for some time and had to cut a bullpen session short earlier in the week due to the discomfort. Despite the setback, Verlander remains optimistic about his recovery and the team’s medical staff is guiding his treatment plan. In his 10 starts this season, Verlander has recorded a 3.95 ERA and a 3-2 record. His most recent outing against the Los Angeles Angels saw him give up four runs and five hits.
The Astros, who had a record of 32-38 before Saturday’s game, are looking to bounce back from a series of recent losses to improve their standing in the league. Arrighetti is expected to start the next game against the Tigers, though the team has yet to decide who will take his place in the rotation for the rest of the series.
Verlander expressed disappointment at missing a start but acknowledged that being classified as day-to-day was a positive development. He emphasized the importance of following
