The Houston Astros have been put into a tough spot after learning that staff ace Justin Verlander will be out indefinitely with a forearm strain that could put his 2020 season in jeopardy.
After reports over the weekend that Verlander would miss the rest of the season, the veteran pitcher took to his Twitter account to inform fans that he does not know how long he will be out.
Verlander won his Opening Day start against the Seattle Mariners, tossing six innings of one-run ball and striking out seven batters. The reigning Cy Young Award winner did not show any signs of discomfort during his start, making the revelation that he was dealing with an injury a surprise when it was reported on Sunday.
The Virginia native won 21 games last season, compiling an outstanding 2.58 ERA in 34 starts. He was named to his eighth AL All-Star team as well, capping what was one of the best seasons of his storied career and cementing his status as one of baseball’s top hurlers.
The future Hall of Famer’s injury will force him to go to the injured list, but at this point, now one knows how much time he might miss. The Astros and Verlander alike are certainly hoping that he will return sooner rather than later.
