Verlander began the 2024 season on the IL with a shoulder issue. He debuted in mid-April and made 10 starts, before experiencing a neck issue. At the time, he posted a 3.95 ERA and 1.21 WHIP. However, a 4.98 xFIP, .263 BABIP and 81.6 percent left on base rate indicates he was fortunate. After spending almost 11 weeks on the IL, Verlander returned to make seven more starts with a bloated 8.10 ERA and 1.68 WHIP. Over this stretch, his xFIP was 5.42 with a .356 BABIP and 53.4 percent left on base level, demonstrating misfortune along with subpar pitching. Verlander's strikeout rate is in free-fall, and while his walk rate is still below average, it's creeping up. It's tempting to expect another rebound from a guy who defied the odds after returning from Tommy John surgery when he was 39 years old. It's best to resist temptation. Read Past Outlooks