Quick Read
- Justin Verlander signed a one-year, $13 million deal to return to the Detroit Tigers.
- The agreement was announced on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
- Verlander, who turns 43 next week, will enter his 21st Major League Baseball season.
- He previously played for the Tigers from 2005 to 2017, where his MLB career began.
- Verlander is a three-time American League Cy Young Award winner and a nine-time All-Star.
DETROIT (Azat TV) – Veteran right-handed pitcher Justin Verlander is returning to the Detroit Tigers, the team announced Tuesday, signing a one-year, $13 million contract that marks a significant homecoming for the former ace as he prepares to enter his 21st Major League Baseball season in 2026.
The move brings Verlander back to the franchise where his storied MLB career began in 2005. At 43 years old next week, Verlander’s return is poised to provide a blend of veteran leadership and proven performance to the Tigers’ pitching rotation, rekindling a connection with the fanbase that spans nearly two decades.
Verlander’s Homecoming Deal and Career Milestones
The Detroit Tigers confirmed the agreement on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, securing Verlander for the upcoming season. The guaranteed $13 million deal underscores the team’s belief in the right-hander’s continued ability to perform at an elite level, despite his advancing age in a demanding sport. Verlander’s tenure with the Tigers from 2005 to 2017 established him as one of the league’s dominant pitchers, culminating in numerous accolades.
His impressive resume includes three American League Cy Young Awards, recognizing him as the league’s best pitcher, and nine All-Star selections. These achievements cemented his legacy as one of the most decorated players of his generation, making his return to Comerica Park a highly anticipated event for Detroit baseball enthusiasts.
A Look at Recent Performance
Before rejoining the Tigers, Verlander spent the 2025 season with the San Francisco Giants. During his time in San Francisco, he posted a 4-11 record with a 3.85 ERA and a 1.36 WHIP over 152 innings pitched. He recorded 137 strikeouts against 52 walks, demonstrating his continued capability to log innings and generate swings and misses, even if his win-loss record did not reflect his full impact. This recent performance suggests he remains a durable and effective pitcher, capable of contributing significantly to a Major League rotation.
His decision to return to Detroit, rather than pursue opportunities elsewhere, speaks to the deep ties he maintains with the organization and the city. It also highlights the unique opportunity to finish a career chapter where it began, adding a sentimental layer to a purely professional transaction.
Veteran Presence for the Tigers
For the Detroit Tigers, Verlander’s signing represents more than just acquiring a pitcher; it’s an investment in experience and a nod to the franchise’s history. His presence in the clubhouse is expected to mentor younger pitchers and reinforce a winning culture. As he embarks on his 21st season, Verlander brings an unparalleled understanding of the game, having competed at its highest levels and navigated the challenges of a long and successful career.
His return is also expected to generate significant fan interest and boost attendance, providing an emotional lift for a team looking to build competitive momentum. The symbolic value of an icon returning to his original team cannot be overstated, offering a narrative of continuity and aspiration for the club.
Verlander’s reunion with the Detroit Tigers signals a strategic move to infuse veteran talent and leadership into the roster while capitalizing on the emotional resonance of a franchise legend returning to where his Hall of Fame-caliber career truly blossomed.