Verlander's first start in Spring Training was delayed until March 3 due to discomfort in his right groin.
"Initially, the hope was that physical therapy would be the proper course of action," Astros General Manager James Click said. "However, after a recent setback in his rehab, the medical staff recommended that a surgical procedure was necessary. The early prognosis is that Justin will be out for about six weeks."
Since he started playing for the Astros, Verlander has not missed a start, the organization said.