The Houston Astros have officially announced that Justin Verlander will be starting the 2024 season on the injured list.

Despite not encountering any setbacks in his ongoing shoulder issue, which had previously slowed his progress during spring training, the Astros are opting for a cautious approach in ramping up his workload.

Manager Joe Espada spoke out about Verlander’s current status.

“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.”

This marks the second consecutive season that the 41-year-old starting pitcher will begin on the IL. Last year, he missed the entirety of April due to a low-grade shoulder strain.

Verlander’s return from Tommy John surgery in 2022 was nothing short of remarkable, culminating in his third Cy Young Award. Despite limited appearances in the two preceding years, he showcased an impressive 1.75 ERA and amassed 185 strikeouts across 175 innings.

Following his triumphant comeback, Verlander secured a lucrative two-year, $86.6 million contract with the New York Mets. However, his tenure with the Mets was short-lived, as he was later traded back to the Astros amidst a challenging season for the team. Despite his contributions, which included a 3.15 ERA over 16 starts, Verlander struggled during the playoffs, conceding six runs across three starts.

While still demonstrating effectiveness, Verlander displayed slight signs of aging, notably with a 14.8 percent strikeout-minus-walk rate, his lowest since 2014.

The Astros will undoubtedly rely on a healthy Verlander as they aim for their eighth consecutive appearance in the American League Championship Series. In his absence, Framber Valdez is expected to take the mound for the Opening Day assignment when the Astros kick off their season against the New York Yankees on Thursday, March 28.

Verlander could potentially return from the 15-day IL as early as April 11, offering hope for his swift recovery and eventual return to the pitching rotation.