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Detroit Tigers' manager Brad Ausmus has announced the injury status of starting pitcher Justin Verlander, who was pulled from his start Monday night with pain in his right shoulder.
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Considering the stakes, the Tigers should be happy with the results. Verlander is not expected to miss a significant amount of time.
Ausmus on Verlander: "There was no major structural damage. At this pt we don't expect him to go on the DL."
— Jason Beck (@beckjason) August 12, 2014
The MRI did find inflammation in multiple spots in Verlander's shoulder. Ausmus says reducing the inflammation will be the major hurdle, and the diagnosis is rest. Trainer Kevin Rand added the inflammation is consistent with normal wear and tear on the shoulder after years of throwing pitches.
But the news wasn't all good. Verlander will go on the shelf for the time being, missing at least one start. Best case scenario is Robbie Ray pitching in Verlander's stead on Sunday and a return to the rotation sometime next week.
Verlander unlikely to make his turn in rotation Sunday, but hopeful for next week. Robbie Ray would fill in Sunday.
— Jason Beck (@beckjason) August 12, 2014
Verlander was rocked during his one inning of work in Detroit's 11-6 loss to Pittsburgh. He allowed five runs and four hits in what was the shortest outing of his career.
The injury bug having hit the rotation, resulting in an exhausted bullpen, has forced more roster moves as well. To make room for Ray on the 25-man roster, Justin Miller will be sent back to Triple-A Toledo. The Tigers also recalled relief pitcher Blaine Hardy from Triple-A and placed starting pitcher Anibal Sanchez on the 15-day disabled list.