The news hit one after the other this week: Three big-name starting pitchers all dealing with injuries that could cause them to miss the beginning of the regular season — and potentially more.
Houston's Justin Verlander, St. Louis' Sonny Gray and Boston's Lucas Giolito are all ailing at spring training.
Verlander will start the season on the injured list after being slowed by inflammation in his pitching shoulder during the offseason. Gray has a hamstring strain sustained Monday. And Giolito reported discomfort in his pitching elbow following last week's start in which he was roughed up.
''We're obviously concerned. Not a good day for us,'' Boston manager Alex Cora told reporters in Florida.
Verlander is the biggest name of the three, although his situation appears to be more of a delay than a long-term concern. Astros manager Joe Espada said Tuesday the 41-year-old Verlander hasn't suffered any setbacks or soreness following bullpen sessions but needs more time to become game ready.
The three-time Cy Young Award winner is expected to throw in the bullpen again on Friday but has yet to face hitters. A delay to the start of the season could jeopardize his conditional $35 million option for 2025.
Giolito will have additional exams to determine the severity of his injury, but there's worry it could be a long-term issue.
Giolito signed a $38.5 million, two-year deal with the Red Sox this offseason. The 29-year-old right-hander is coming off a 2023 season in which he gave up 41 home runs and had a 4.88 ERA for the White Sox, Angels and Guardians.