Justin Verlander

Justin Verlander had a mixed outing in Wednesday's 3-2 loss to the Guardians.

Fantasy Impact

He allowed two earned runs on six hits and three walks while striking out only two over seven innings. Despite maintaining a solid 2.08 ERA and 1.15 WHIP through his first three starts of the season, Verlander's performance in this game was less dominant than fantasy managers might hope, especially with a lower-than-expected strikeout count.

Justin Verlander pitched 4.1 innings with three hits, four walks, and seven strikeouts despite a no-decision in the Astros' 3-1 loss to the Cubs on Thursday.

Fantasy Impact

Verlander was pulled after 95 pitches having pitched 4.1 innings, allowing no earned runs while giving up three hits and four walks, and striking out seven. Despite a strong performance that kept his ERA impressive at 1.74, Verlander's inability to go deeper into the game likely frustrated fantasy managers counting on more innings and a potential win. His season stats remain strong, with a solid WHIP of 1.06 and a K/9 of 9.6, indicating that he remains a top-tier fantasy option. However, his high walk rate in this outing could be a point of concern if it becomes a recurring issue.

Justin Verlander delivered a solid performance in Friday's 5-3 victory over the Nationals.

Fantasy Impact

He pitched six innings, allowing two earned runs on four hits, with no walks and four strikeouts. This outing showcases the veteran right-hander's ability to overpower opposing hitters on a consistent basis. Fantasy managers can expect Verlander to remain a strong starting option as he continues to work back to full strength at the top of the Houston rotation for manager Joe Espada as the season continues.

Justin Verlander (shoulder) will be activated from the IL and take the mound for Friday's game against the Nationals.

Fantasy Impact

It was expected that Verlander would make his season debut during this weekend's series in Washington D.C. Now, it has been confirmed that will happen Friday. Verlander, who has been dealing with shoulder inflammation, threw 77 pitches over four innings in a rehab outing this past Saturday. This news is obviously very welcome by the struggling Astros and their beat-up pitching staff.

Justin Verlander is expected to make his season debut on Friday or Saturday in Washington.

Fantasy Impact

Verlander was able to complete a bullpen session on Tuesday. He opened the season on the injured list with a shoulder injury. The Astros rotation remains very banged up, so getting Verlander will be big for Houston.