Detroit Tigers fans holding their breath for a Justin Verlander return will need to wait a little longer. The future Hall of Famer, working his way back from left hip inflammation, threw a bullpen session on Wednesday, but the path to the mound isn't getting any shorter.

Tigers manager A.J. Hinch provided a candid update before Thursday's game, describing a recovery that has hit a plateau. "He's doing OK," Hinch said. "I don't think he's necessarily taking a step forward, and he hasn't taken a step back. It wasn't quite to the level that he wanted... but it wasn't a setback."

The key takeaway? Patience. Hinch emphasized the club's day-by-day approach, noting the process is "going a little slower than anticipated." For a 41-year-old with Verlander's legendary competitive fire, managing a nagging injury is a delicate balance. The Tigers are wisely prioritizing getting it right over rushing him back, as he's not yet at "100% where we can advance to game activity."

Verlander will travel with the team to Boston for their series against the Red Sox and is expected to continue his throwing program at Fenway Park. While the three-time Cy Young winner declined to speak with reporters, his presence on the trip signals the club's hope that he can soon resume building toward a return. For now, the Tigers and their ace are in a holding pattern, focused on the long game of a full recovery.