Tigers Daily Report
June 18, 2026
Executive Summary
The Tigers have an off-day today as they prepare for a weekend series against the Chicago White Sox starting tomorrow. Justin Verlander will return to the Tigers' rotation on Sunday in Detroit against the White Sox, marking a significant boost to Detroit's rotation as they look to build on recent momentum.
Top Story
Verlander Set to Return Sunday as Tigers Enter White Sox Series
Verlander threw 66 pitches in a four-inning sim game without any problems, so the Tigers will allow him to return from the IL over the weekend and make his first start since March 30. The 43-year-old posted a 3.38 ERA and 1.08 WHIP in 10.2 frames during his rehab assignment at Triple-A, but he was lit up for five earned runs in just 3.2 innings during his lone MLB outing this season. The Tigers face a Chicago offense that has looked formidable of late, but Detroit's pitching depth will be bolstered significantly by Verlander's activation.
Source: CBS Sports
Around the Club
Injuries — The Tigers placed Torres on the 10-day injured list Wednesday with a left oblique strain, an injury he sustained during Monday's game in Houston. Hao-Yu Lee has drawn two straight starts at second base for the Tigers and could share the position with Zach McKinstry while Torres is shelved. Source: CBS Sports
Prospects — Max Clark has been proving why he's the Tigers' top prospect and MLB Pipeline's No. 7 overall while finding his footing at Triple-A Toledo this season, with his latest heater only further solidifying that. Source: MLB.com
Roster — The Tigers reinstated closer Kenley Jansen from the 15-day injured list, selected the contract of newly acquired reliever Jacob Waguespack, and added outfielder James Outman, who they claimed off waivers. Source: Yardbarker
Quick Hits
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Wenceel Pérez will likely be fine by Friday following the Tigers' team off day Thursday; the switch-hitting outfielder is sporting a .594 OPS with seven home runs across 53 games for Detroit this season.
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Troy Melton is listed as the Tigers' probable starting pitcher for Saturday's game against the White Sox after being scratched from his previously scheduled start Monday in Houston due to back tightness.
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Colt Keith was a late scratch from the starting lineup on June 16 with right wrist soreness but experienced positive results on examination.
Next Game
Chicago White Sox — Friday, June 19, 6:40 p.m. ET, Comerica Park
Tigers Daily Report — June 18, 2026