Austin Konenski
Justin Verlander is back with the Detroit Tigers for the 2026 MLB season. In February, the Tigers signed Verlander to a one-year contract, solidifying the rotation with five starting pitchers. However, will this be the three-time AL Cy Young pitcher’s last season before his inevitable MLB retirement?
Verlander spoke about his retirement plans following a Spring Training game, as reported by Detroit Free Press’ Evan Petzold. While Verlander is aware that an injury or horrible season could make it his last, he still wants to chase 300 wins and pitch at 45 years old.
“I don’t know how much longer I’m going to play,” Verlander said. “I know there’s not a lot of time left, especially in the grand scheme of things. If I play for another two years, three years, whatever it is, out of 21 [years], it’s like nothing. I’m just trying to enjoy it a little more…I don’t want to sit here and sound like this is it. It could be. It’s a one-year contract. If something catastrophic goes wrong, or I can’t be healthy, that’s it – I’m done. All I know is there’s not that much time left, so enjoy it while you can.”
Verlander is currently 43 years old, meaning he could pitch another two to three seasons. It isn’t guaranteed that Verlander would spend those two to three seasons in Detroit, as he only signed a one-year contract. However, the 43-year-old pitcher would be a pretty good bet to return if he has a good campaign, with Tarik Skubal, Jack Flaherty, and Casey Mize all scheduled to become free agents.
The Tigers understand what Verlander’s return means for the team and city, and it would only be fitting if Verlander retired in Detroit. Hopefully, Verlander doesn’t retire as a Tiger for a few more seasons.
