Astros' Justin Verlander: Ups throwing intensity Friday

Verlander (shoulder) said he ramped up his throwing intensity during a 60-pitch bullpen session Friday, Brian McTaggart of MLB.com reports.

The veteran right-hander noted that his fastball velocity in Friday's session was sitting in the low 90s. Verlander will begin the season on the injured list as he works his way back from an offseason right shoulder issue, but he continues to make steady progress in his recovery. It's not clear when he might face hitters or if he'll pitch in any Grapefruit League games.