Justin Verlander, the Detroit Tigers right-hander, announced Wednesday that he plans to retire at season’s end. The 43-year-old’s decision follows his selection as a “Legend Pick” for the All-Star Game by Commissioner Rob Manfred, marking Verlander’s 10th career All-Star appearance.
Verlander’s Retirement Decision and All-Star Selection
Verlander confirmed his plans to step away from professional baseball via a social media statement, noting that he wanted the game to tell him when it was time to retire. “Over the last several months, I’ve realized that time has come,” Verlander wrote. He expressed a desire to finish his career with the Detroit Tigers, the organization that drafted him second overall in 2004.
The announcement coincided with Verlander being named a Legend Pick for next Tuesday’s Midsummer Classic in Philadelphia. He joins Phillies slugger Bryce Harper in this special category. Verlander is the second Tiger to receive this honor, following longtime teammate Miguel Cabrera in 2022.
Injury Struggles and the 2024 Season
Verlander’s final season has been defined by physical setbacks. Currently on the 60-day injured list, the pitcher has dealt with left hip inflammation and a subsequent left hamstring strain. During a Wednesday afternoon media session, Verlander described the frustration of his recovery process, stating he felt like he was “plugging holes in a boat.”
Despite his desire to contribute to the Tigers’ rotation alongside Tarik Skubal and Casey Mize, Verlander has not yet pitched at Comerica Park this season. He noted that while his arm remains strong, his body is “sending signals” that it is no longer capable of the rigors of a full season.
Career Milestones and Statistical Legacy
Verlander’s career ranks among the greatest for a pitcher in his generation and for the Modern Era (since 1900). He sits with Don Newcombe as the only players in MLB history to win Rookie of the Year, Cy Young and MVP honors in his career. He is one of six pitchers in history to throw three no-hitters (2007, 2011, and 2019).
| Category | Career Statistic / Achievement | MLB Rank/Status |
|---|---|---|
| Strikeouts | 3,554 | 8th All-Time |
| Wins | 266 | 37th All-Time |
| bWAR (Pitching) | 82.3 | 24th All-Time |
| Starts | 556 | 29th All-Time |
Impact Across Detroit and Houston
Verlander’s legacy is split between two primary chapters. In Detroit, he led the Tigers to four consecutive AL Central titles from 2011 to 2014. His 2011 campaign was particularly dominant, as he led MLB with 24 wins and 250 strikeouts while earning both the MVP and Cy Young awards.
After being traded to the Houston Astros in 2017, Verlander became a key piece of two Houston World Series titles.
The End of the Workhorse Era
Between 2007 and 2019, he recorded twelve 200-inning seasons. He also tallied nine 200-strikeout seasons, including a 300-strikeout campaign in 2019. Given the changing role of the starting pitcher, he and Max Scherzer might be the last to compile some of these marks.
Following a stint with the Mets, a trade back to Houston, and a one-year deal with the Giants last season, Verlander returned to Detroit in February to provide veteran leadership. While injuries may limit his remaining time on the mound, Verlander stated he is committed to giving the team everything he has for the remainder of the season.
Keep reading