3 years agoHouston Astros manager Dusty Baker said that starting pitcher Justin Verlander (elbow) will "probably not" be the team's Opening Day starter this year. Baker hinted that the decision is between Verlander and Framber Valdez, and Valdez is on schedule to pitch on April 7 on the road against the Los Angeles Angels. Verlander missed the entire 2021 season after having Tommy John surgery, and he's logged only 4 2/3 innings in Grapefruit League play this spring. The eight-time All-Star and two-time Cy Young winner continues to be solid when healthy despite his age (39 years old), but coming off a lost season, fantasy managers are being much more cautious with the veteran righty. RotoBaller currently has Verlander ranked as the No. 26 fantasy starter with Opening Day quickly approaching.--Keith Hernandez - RotoBaller
Source: Houston Chronicle - Chandler Rome