2 years agoThe tentative plan is for Houston Astros right-hander Justin Verlander (calf) to return to the starting rotation on Friday against the Oakland Athletics, but manager Dusty Baker said it's not finalized yet. Verlander has already thrown multiple bullpen sessions without any setbacks and appears rearing to rejoin the rotation for the stretch run in September. The 39-year-old two-time Cy Young winner continues to be one of the best starting pitchers in fantasy despite his age, as he's gone 16-3 with a league-leading 1.84 ERA (2.71 FIP), a league-leading 0.85 WHIP, 154 strikeouts and only 26 walks in 152 innings over 24 starts. Verlander will be a no-brainer must-start against Oakland if he does indeed make his return on Friday.--Keith Hernandez - RotoBaller
Source: Houston Chronicle - Chandler Rome