​Detroit — Justin Verlander announced on Wednesday that this season will be his final one in baseball. The three-time Cy Young winner and two-time World Series champion revealed the decision in a letter after he was selected to the All-Star game as a Legend Pick by commissioner Rob Manfred. In the note, Verlander spoke candidly about the toll the current campaign has taken on him, both physically and mentally. He noted that he had always believed he could continue playing as long as he could compete at the level he expected of himself, and he made clear that retirement would not be driven by a milestone, a number, or a date on the calendar. Rather, he said, he wanted the game to tell him when it was time to step away.
“Over the last several months, I’ve realized that time has come,” the 43-year-old pitcher wrote. Verlander remains on the injured list with a hamstring strain but emphasized his commitment to rehab and to returning to pitch again this season. “It’s fitting that I get to finish where it all started — with the Detroit Tigers,” he added.
A former MVP and Rookie of the Year, Verlander leaves behind an active career leadership profile that includes the most wins (266) and the most strikeouts (3,554) among active players. He is almost certain to enter the Hall of Fame on the first ballot five years from now. In his letter, Verlander reflected on the game’s life-changing impact: Baseball, he said, has given him more than he could have imagined. It taught him discipline, resilience, and the importance of continuing to adapt and evolve. He expressed gratitude for the chance to play with and against extraordinary players, for outstanding organizations, and in front of fans who deeply love the sport.
Verlander will not be able to participate in what would have been his 10th All-Star appearance, but he will be honored during the Philadelphia festivities. “To every teammate, coach, player, clubhouse attendant and fan who has been part of this journey – thank you,” he wrote. “It’s been a privilege to share the field with you. To my family, especially my wife Kate, thank you for standing beside me through every season, every rehab and every high and low. I couldn’t have done it without you.”
“It’s time for the next chapter. But first, I’m excited to finish the season the only way I know how, with everything I’ve got.”