According to multiple reports, 43 year old Justin Verlander is returning home to play for the Detroit Tigers in 2026! Verlander, a former #2 overall pick in the 2004 MLB Draft, has agreed on a deal with the team that he previously played 13 seasons with.
Verlander, a future Hall of Famer, spent the 2025 season with the San Francisco Giants, and finished the season 4-11 with a 3.85 ERA in 29 games started.
Right-hander Justin Verlander and the Detroit Tigers are in agreement on a one-year contract. Verlander, 43 next week, returns to the team with which he spent his first 13 seasons and whose hat he'll wear in the Hall of Fame.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) February 10, 2026
The deal is reportedly a one year deal worth an estimated $13 million. With ace Tarik Skubal, and the addition of Framber Valdez and now Verlander, the Detroit Tigers’ starting rotation is now likely the best in the American League and possibly in all of baseball.
Verlander, a nine-time MLB All-Star, has won 3 CY Young Awards, an MVP award, has thrown 3 no-hitters and has won 2 World Series during his long and illustrious career.
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