Astros Make Final Decision on Verlander Before Opening Day

Justin Verlander entered Spring Training with an injury, something the Houston Astros didn't want to hear. For the Astros to be the team they want to be, Verlander being healthy is a must.

He was slowed by a shoulder injury earlier this spring and it has delayed his Spring Training debut. Verlander, however, did recently throw a 60-pitch bullpen. The next step is expected to be pitching in live batting practice, a telling sign that he'll be ready to go at some point in the near future.

No matter how that goes, the right-hander will be sidelined to start the year.

Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports that Verlander will be on the IL to begin the season. He adds that manager Joe Espada said he didn't have any setbacks but needs more time to get going.

"He's doing well, but we're running out of days and won't be able to build him up to start the regular season," he said.

It's disappointing to hear that Verlander will start the season on the IL, but being healthy is the top priority for this team.

There doesn't seem to be too much concern from anyone about this injury. The three-time Cy Young Award winner knows his body better than anyone and hasn't said he's worried about getting healthy or this injury getting worse.

With the start of the season at the end of March and Verlander not throwing off a mound to live hitters yet, it's not surprising to see him put on the IL to start the year.

It's uncertain how long Verlander will miss. An announcement on that front should be given shortly.