By Sophia Verelli May 22, 2025
Photo: Suzanna Mitchell - SF Giants / Justin Verlander #35 of the San Francisco Giants pitches during the game at Oracle Park on May 12, 2025 vs Diamondbacks
The San Francisco Giants are learning the hard way that even future Hall of Famers are not immune to the wear and tear of time. Justin Verlander, the 42-year-old three-time Cy Young Award winner, was placed on the 15-day injured list earlier this week with a strained pectoral muscle, dealing a sharp blow to a Giants rotation already trying to find its rhythm in a competitive National League West.
The move, retroactive to May 19, came after Verlander experienced tightness during a bullpen session. He attempted to push through but ultimately informed the team that he would not be able to make his next scheduled start. After further evaluation, the Giants decided to err on the side of caution. Manager Bob Melvin confirmed the diagnosis and emphasized that the team hopes it will be a short stint on the IL, not a prolonged absence.
Still, any time lost is significant when it comes to Verlander, whose signing was one of the Giants’ most high-profile offseason moves. Brought in on a one-year, $15 million contract, Verlander was expected to be a stabilizing presence in the rotation, offering not just innings but mentorship to a younger staff. His experience, postseason pedigree, and still-flashing brilliance made him a tantalizing piece of the Giants’ plans.
So far, however, the results have been mixed. Through 10 starts in a Giants uniform, Verlander has yet to record a win. His current line reads 0–3 with a 4.33 ERA, 41 strikeouts, and 21 walks across 52 innings. Those numbers are a far cry from the Verlander of old, but they also suggest flashes of competitiveness that the Giants were banking on when they signed him.
In his most recent outing against the lowly Athletics, Verlander lacked velocity and struggled with command, walking five batters in just four innings of work. For a pitcher known for precision and poise, the struggles were a red flag. Verlander acknowledged afterward that his body simply didn’t feel right, and the pectoral discomfort eventually forced the team’s hand.
The Giants, who currently sit in the thick of an early season surge, can’t afford to lose him for either. With Logan Webb anchoring the rotation and Robbie Ray working his way back from injury, San Francisco has leaned heavily on depth and flexibility this season. Now, they’ll need that depth more than ever.
One likely fill-in is Kyle Harrison, the 22-year-old lefty recently recalled from Triple-A Sacramento. Harrison dazzled in the minors and has shown signs of major league readiness. Another option is Jordan Hicks, who began the season in the rotation before being shifted to the bullpen. His electric stuff and versatility make him a potential swingman, though the Giants may be cautious about moving him around too often.
What’s clear is that the team isn’t just losing a pitcher, they’re losing a tone-setter. Verlander may not be blowing hitters away like he did in Detroit or Houston, but his presence in the clubhouse and his understanding of the moment are things that simply can’t be replaced. Younger pitchers have often praised Verlander’s in-game insights, and even the coaching staff admits he brings a level of preparation and confidence that permeates the roster.
As for the fans, the news is disappointing but not devastating. While expectations were tempered due to Verlander’s age, there was genuine excitement to watch a living legend take the mound at Oracle Park. If this turns out to be a minor setback, and all indications so far suggest it is, then the Giants may still get to see Verlander make a meaningful impact when it matters most: down the stretch.
For now, it’s wait and see. The Giants will continue to monitor his progress, and Verlander is expected to begin light throwing again within a few days. If all goes well, he could return shortly after his IL stint concludes. But if his condition lingers or worsens, San Francisco may have to confront the possibility that one of their biggest bets this season simply doesn’t pay off.
Either way, the Giants are moving forward. But doing so without Justin Verlander, even temporarily, is a challenge no team takes lightly.
