Astros' Justin Verlander: Healthy and clear of pain

Verlander (groin/lat) told manager Dusty Baker that he's healthy and pain free, though Baker noted "we don't know yet" about his endurance, Brandon Scott of 610 Sports Radio reports.

It's not confirmation that Verlander will be ready to go when Opening Day comes around a month from now, but it appears things are trending in that direction. The veteran right-hander underwent right groin surgery in mid-March and also dealt with a lat strain, but he may not end up missing any games due to the shortened season. Verlander has been throwing since April and has been working off a mound since at least mid-June, though the specifics of his workouts remain unclear. More information should be available once players officially report to team facilities next week.