Tigers legend Verlander to be activated from injured list, expected to start Monday

Detroit Tigers manager A.J. Hinch announced that Justin Verlander has advanced to the "next stage" and is projected to rejoin the Tigers' rotation for Monday's home game versus the Chicago White Sox.

The 43-year-old Verlander returned to Detroit this offseason on a one-year free-agent contract but made only one major league start this season before landing on the injured list with left hip inflammation. He was placed on the IL on April 4 (retroactive to April 1) and subsequently made rehab starts for Triple-A Toledo on June 2 and June 10. After completing a four-inning simulated game on Tuesday at Daikin Park in Houston, Hinch shared the update today.

"We've had a few rehab outings and the simulated game on Tuesday. It's time to give him a bigger challenge in a real game," Hinch said. "His feedback has been improving after each appearance after appearance. I think the key is maintaining his stuff and his delivery."

In a March 30 road game against the Arizona Diamondbacks, Verlander lasted only 3.2 innings, giving up five runs on six hits and two walks in a 6-9 Tigers loss. Now Monday's start offers the active MLB leader in wins (266) and strikeouts (3,554) a prime opportunity to add to those totals.

"That's the next step," Hinch said. "He's worked hard to get to this point. We've pushed him, pushed him to increase his workload, and push him to elevate his intensity. The adrenaline he mentioned, along with the energy from a start, will benefit him. I think it will be good for us too."

Verlander was seen playing chess in the clubhouse with Tarik Skubal before Wednesday's game. Skubal is scheduled to start the series opener against the White Sox on Friday. After being scratched from a scheduled Tuesday start against the Astros due to back tightness, Troy Melton could potentially pitch on Sunday if he recovers well.