In a recent interview, Houston Astros pitcher Justin Verlander expressed his concerns regarding the surge of arm injuries in Major League Baseball (MLB). Verlander, who is currently rehabilitating from shoulder inflammation, called the issue a "pandemic" and believes that increased velocity rather than the pitch clock is the primary driver behind these injuries.

The discussion around pitcher health has gained prominence following several high-profile arm injuries, affecting notable players like Shane Bieber of the Guardians and Spencer Strider of the Braves. As a result, the league and the Player Association have engaged in a back-and-forth exchange of press releases, debating the role of the pitch clock in these occurrences.

Verlander, one of the most accomplished pitchers of his generation, understands the toll that pitching-related injuries can take on a player's career. With his own experiences including Tommy John surgery, he acknowledges the changing landscape of pitching in today's game.

"The style of pitching has changed so much," Verlander stated. "Everyone is throwing the ball as hard as they possibly can and spinning the ball as hard as they possibly can." He emphasizes the dilemma faced by pitchers, as asking them to curb their velocity when they are capable of throwing triple-digit speeds is a complex issue.

To address the escalating number of injuries, Verlander suggests implementing structural and rules-based incentives that prioritize longer outings rather than short, high-velocity appearances. This recommendation applies not only to starting pitchers but also to relievers, who often focus on maximizing velocity and sharp movement.

However, Verlander acknowledges that bringing about these changes won't be easy. It will require time and effort to alter the incentives within the current framework. The hope is that MLB's ongoing inquiry into the matter will result in actionable steps agreed upon by all parties involved.

MLB is becoming increasingly aware of the need to mitigate the attrition faced by pitchers at the professional level. The league's inquiry aims to find solutions to reduce the high number of arm injuries, with the goal of preserving the longevity and effectiveness of pitchers.

As discussions continue, it is clear that the issue of pitcher health is a pressing concern within MLB. Verlander's insights shed light on the role of increased velocity in contributing to these injuries, prompting the need for comprehensive changes that prioritize the long-term well-being of players.

While addressing this matter may prove challenging, the hope is that collaborative efforts will result in effective measures that protect the longevity and durability of pitchers in the game.