When will Justin Verlander return to the Astros?

Houston Astros 3x Cy Young winner Justin Verlander is beginning to ramp his way back to the starting rotation. The Astros announced in March that Verlander would not be ready for the start of the season and was placed on the 15-day IL as he deals with a shoulder issue that put him behind.

On Monday, Verlander threw three innings and 52 pitches in a simulated game at Minute Maid Park. 

Astros Manager Joe Espada said that Verlander had no issues after Monday and revealed that Verlander will take one more bullpen session on Thursday. Espada said if the bullpen session goes well the next step would be rehab assignments in the minor leagues next week.

The Astros had not been clear as to how many starts he might need before he joins the club until today where they are now expecting two AAA starts no setbacks would mean he could make his Astros season debut later this month.

Last season Verlander was 13-8 overall, he was 7-3 with a 3.31 ERA with the Astros.