Justin Verlander leaves Tigers-Jays game with right triceps cramp

Justin Verlander was removed in the third inning of the Tigers' game against the Blue Jays on Friday in Dunedin after suffering an injury. The Tigers say it was a "cramp" in his right triceps. He will be further evaluated in Lakeland later in the day. The Tigers do not anticipate him missing his next start.

But for the team and fans both, the injury had to be frightening for a few minutes. Verlander came off the mound to cover first base on a ground ball hit by Ryan Goings. He showed a bit of discomfort and concern after taking the throw, enough to bring trainer Matt Rankin and Ausmus to the mound, and motioned to his right arm. However, Verlander appeared to ask Ausmus to stay in the game and did not show much concern on the bench while speaking with Rankin.

Verlander left the game at 40 pitches through 2-2/3 innings. He opened the inning with a four-pitch walk. He allowed one hit, a home run in the second inning.