Justin Verlander injury update: Progress, but next steps unknown

Detroit Tigers right-hander Justin Verlander completed a bullpen session for the first time in the week after lingering pain in his left leg forced him to slow down the rehab process . Here's the good news: The 43-year-old made progress Wednesday, April 22, in his most recent bullpen as he continues to try to return from left hip inflammation. The bad news?

There still isn't a timetable for Verlander's return to the Tigers. "It sounds like his leg didn't hinder him as much as it had in his previous bullpen, which is encouraging," manager A. J.

Hinch before Wednesday's game. "The initial reaction from him was a positive step forward, which is great. He still has a series of things that he needs to do before I can plan on anything, but as of right after the bullpen, I was glad to get that news.

" JEFF SEIDEL: Fifth inning for Javier Báez, Kevin McGonigle show these Tigers' magic Less than 24 hours later, Verlander discussed his successful bullpen session before Thursday's series finale against the Milwaukee Brewers at Comerica Park. He is optimistic. "I thought yesterday went well," Verlander said.