Giants' Justin Verlander Throws Bullpen Session in Detroit During Injury Rehab

San Francisco Giants pitcher Justin Verlander is progressing in his recovery from a strained right pectoral muscle after throwing around 40 pitches in a bullpen session at Detroit's Comerica Park. The 42-year-old, three-time Cy Young Award winner was placed on the 15-day injured list retroactive to May 19 and hopes to return after missing two starts. Verlander has struggled this season with a 0-3 record, a 4.33 ERA, and his worst strikeout-to-walk ratio since 2008, but recent outings have shown improvement with a 2.97 ERA over his last six starts. He clarified that the current injury is unrelated to earlier neck issues that sidelined him in 2024. The Giants are optimistic about his return as he continues to check recovery milestones, although some hurdles remain before he can rejoin the rotation. Additionally, the team received positive news with slugger Jerar Encarnacion resuming his rehab assignment, potentially strengthening the Giants amid an ongoing road trip.