Justin Verlander's highly anticipated homecoming season with the Detroit Tigers has hit a speed bump. The veteran ace, who signed a one-year deal to return to Motown, is facing a slower-than-expected recovery from left hip inflammation that landed him on the injured list earlier this month.

While Manager A.J. Hinch reported that Verlander threw a bullpen session on Wednesday that "went OK," he emphasized the 43-year-old right-hander is not progressing as quickly as hoped. "It wasn't quite to the level that I think he wanted, or that we wanted," Hinch said, though he clarified it was not a setback. The cautious approach means Verlander will travel with the team but will not be activated for their upcoming series, extending his wait for a second start in a Tigers uniform.

This delay is a tough blow for both the future Hall of Famer and Tigers fans. His emotional return to Comerica Park was slated for a national "Sunday Night Baseball" broadcast, only to be scratched the day before. For now, the rotation spot remains with rookie Keider Montero as the team prioritizes getting their star pitcher fully right, understanding that a healthy Verlander down the stretch is more valuable than a rushed return.