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Jesse Rogers, ESPN writer
WEST PALM BEACH — Ailing Astros starter Justin Verlander will perform a live BP session in Houston on Monday or Tuesday, manager Joe Espada said Friday.
If all goes well, he’ll likely pitch one more time before heading out on a rehab assignment. Verlander, 41, has been sidelined all spring with shoulder inflammation that began during the offseason. He reported no ill effects after his final throwing session on Wednesday, so he will leave camp with the team and accompany them back to Houston to continue his recovery.
“If things go well, maybe another life before going on a rehab assignment,” Espada said. “Just depending on where JV is live next, BP.”
Verlander was asked if his velocity was where he wanted it after his last time on the mound.
“Yes, it was,” he said. “Pretty much what she expected.”
The Astros are dealing with several pitching injuries, including a recent one to right-hander José Urquidy, but are hopeful of having Verlander back soon after the start of the regular season.
Left-hander Framber Valdez was forced to throw away his final preparation before Opening Day in a simulated game situation Friday when the Astros’ game that night against the Nationals was rained out. He threw 82 pitches split between the field and bullpen due to the weather.
Espada also announced Friday that Hunter Brown will start Game 3 of the regular season against the Yankees. He will follow Valdez and Christian Javier in the rotation.