Tigers' Verlander cleared to resume throwing program

Justin Verlander's third MRI results are in, and the results are encouraging.

The Detroit Tigers hurler had his third MRI reviewed by Dr. Tony Romeo on Wednesday, and received medical clearance to resume a throwing program. Shortly afterward, Verlander made 50 tosses from 60 feet with no reported setbacks.

"He’s got to start building up his arm strength again," manager Brad Ausmus told reporters Wednesday. "Basically from ground zero. We'll just have to see how it goes."

Verlander's first pair of MRIs revealed a right triceps strain, which has kept the former MVP on the disabled list all season. 

"I don't think anybody's at fault for (the injury) lingering - you can't force the body to heal," Verlander said. "Even in the (simulated) game, I don't think I re-injured it. I think it just wasn't ready. I didn't feel that grab or that really sharp pain. I was just achy, but then it was much more sore than it should have been."

The 2011 American League MVP is still likely weeks away from returning to the rotation, and will require a rehab assignment to get up to speed.