Naturally, no significant announcement was made. Before Spring Training, Verlander was merely giving media an update on his situation and how he feels a little behind schedule.

However, at this age, his body will not heal as quickly as it once did.

Houston also requires him.

He went 7-3 in his 11 starts after being acquired at the trade deadline the previous year, recording an ERA of 3.31 and an ERA+ of 127.

Verlander is an important piece of the team this year.

During their bullpen session, the ace was able to toss off the mound, which was encouraging.

The Astros received better news when he returned to the facility the following day and provided a positive update on his physical condition after that throwing session.

Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports that Verlander “walked in today feeling good about how the farm feels,” according to manager Joe Espada.

Houston had to rely on two rookies for the whole season last year due to injuries to their starting rotation at the beginning of the season.

The executive management is expecting that with their ace back and combined with Framber Valdez, they have much more firepower and less strain on their bullpen, which is coming off a bad season and is considerably weaker than in previous years.

It will be crucial if Verlander is fit to begin.

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