​DETROIT (AP) — Justin Verlander announced that he intends to retire after this season, opting to bring a storied career with the Detroit Tigers to a close later in the year. The three-time Cy Young Award winner, two-time World Series champion, and 2011 AL MVP confirmed the decision shortly after being named a Legend Pick for the American League All-Star roster. In a social media statement, Verlander said, “While I’m fully committed to giving my team everything I have for the rest of this season, I’ve decided this will be my last. It’s fitting that I get to finish where it all started — with the Detroit Tigers, the organization that drafted me and gave me my first opportunity.”
At 43, Verlander is the oldest active player in Major League Baseball. He rejoined the Tigers on a one-year, $13 million contract in February. His lone appearance thus far this season came on March 30, when he allowed five runs over 3 2/3 innings in a 9-6 road defeat to Arizona, marking his only start of the year. “It’s time for the next chapter,” Verlander said, adding, “But first, I’m excited to finish this season the only way I know how — with everything I’ve got.” The pitcher spent time on the injured list early in the season due to hip inflammation, and a hamstring pull during a bullpen session last month hindered his return as he prepared to come back.
“I never wanted to retire because of a milestone, a number, or a date on the calendar,” Verlander explained. “I wanted the game to tell me when it was time. Over the last several months, I’ve realized that time has come.” He had been scheduled to pitch in June, which would have marked his return to the mound at Comerica Park for the first time since August 30, 2017, the day before his trade to the Astros.
Verlander compiled a 183-115 record with the Tigers from 2005 through 2017, capturing the 2006 AL Rookie of the Year and sweeping the 2011 AL MVP and Cy Young Awards. He played a pivotal role in Detroit’s World Series appearances in 2006 and 2012 and helped the club secure four consecutive division titles from 2011 to 2014. Later, with the Astros, Verlander earned the 2017 ALCS MVP and helped Houston win the World Series that year, contributing to another title in 2022. He captured his second and third Cy Young Awards in 2019 and 2022, respectively.
“I’ve been fortunate to play with and against incredible players, for outstanding organizations, and compete in front of fans who deeply appreciate the game,” Verlander stated. Although he will not participate in the All-Star Game, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred indicated Verlander will attend the game in Philadelphia on Tuesday and be honored during the festivities. Verlander, who is married to model Kate Upton and shares two children, said the opportunity to attend again will be a cherished moment for him and his family.
Across his 21 MLB seasons, Verlander has posted a career record of 266-159 with a 3.33 ERA in 556 starts, leaving behind a remarkable legacy built on consistency, endurance, and elite performance to define an era in which he consistently delivered at the highest level.