Justin Verlander Struggles in Triple-A Rehab Start, Surrenders Four Home Runs

Detroit — The Minnesota Twins’ organization seems to have a knack for hitting solo home runs. Just a day after their major league team belted four solo shots against the Tigers in a 10-4 defeat, the Twins' Triple-A affiliate in Minneapolis-St. Paul mirrored that effort, connecting for four solo home runs against the Toledo Mud Hens. This performance overshadowed the second rehab outing of Tigers' right-hander Justin Verlander.

Verlander met his expected pitch count, completing 5.2 innings and throwing a total of 86 pitches, 53 of which were strikes. However, his overall performance was inconsistent. His fastball ranged from 92 to 93 mph, peaking at 95 mph, but his slider was frequently over the plate, leading to significant trouble.

Three of the four home runs hit during the game—each flying over 400 feet—came off his sliders, struck by Aaron Sabato, Kyler Fedko, and Matt Wallner. Gabriel Gonzalez also managed to take a 92.6 mph four-seam fastball out of the park to left field.

In total, Verlander allowed five hits, issued two walks, and recorded three strikeouts. Following this outing, he is expected to throw a bullpen session this weekend in Cleveland as the Tigers consider the next steps regarding his return from the injured list.