Justin Verlander headed to DL for 1st time in big league career

Detroit Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander is headed to the disabled list for the first time in his major league career. The Tigers said Thursday the right-hander won’t be on the active roster for Monday’s opener against Minnesota because of tightness in his right triceps. He was scratched from his Thursday start and no timetable has been announced for when he will pitch again. “I think they used the word strain,” Verlander said. “It felt like just a little cramp but, obviously, with it taking a little longer to heal, it’s probably a little bit more than that – just take it day by day.” Verlander, 32, has been throwing lightly in an attempt to work out the tightness. Detroit will make his DL stint retroactive, making it possible the six-time All-Star could start on April 12. – AP