Tigers’ Justin Verlander exits start with tight right groin

Justin Verlander exited today’s contest against the Chicago White Sox in the third inning with apparent tightness in his right groin. After a very good start five days ago against the Kansas City Royals, it was clear from the get-go that something wasn’t right with Verlander. Having thrown 39 pitches in the first inning, the White Sox were fouling off tons of pitches, loading the bases and making him pitch through stress. Still, Verlander limited the damage by only allowing one run.

In the second inning, the bullpen was already getting to work with Warwick Saupold warming up when both Brad Ausmus and Kevin Rand made a visit to the mound. Verlander must’ve said the right things, because he was allowed to finish the inning despite loading the bases again. JV was sent out for the third, but allowed a solo-shot to Todd Frazier to lead off the inning and followed that with a walk to Yolmer Sanchez before having Ausmus and Rand come out to remove him from the game.

Although it wasn’t clear what was wrong, Verlander looked off all afternoon. In only two-plus innings of work, he threw 72 pitches and had trouble putting away hitters. Luckily, he was removed from the game for precautionary reasons, and with an off day tomorrow, he will get an extra day to rest. At this time, it isn’t known if Verlander’s tight right groin will cause him to miss any time or if a trip to the disabled list will be necessary.