Houston Astros veteran Justin Verlander is looking to bounce back in 2024, and his next chapter could involve joining a new team as a free agent. At 41 years old, Verlander is likely to attract interest from contending teams, though his primary goal appears to be regaining form after an injury-plagued 2024 season. He finished the year with a 5-6 record, a 5.48 ERA, and 74 strikeouts over 90 innings pitched. Starting the season on the injured list due to a shoulder issue and later missing nearly two months with a neck injury, Verlander’s campaign was far from his usual standard.
Despite these setbacks, Verlander’s illustrious career highlights—three AL Cy Young Awards (2011, 2019, 2022), two World Series championships (2017, 2022), and three no-hitters (2007, 2011, 2019)—underscore his legacy as one of the game’s greats. He debuted with the Detroit Tigers in 2005, where he achieved some of his most memorable moments, including becoming the first Tigers pitcher since 1952 to throw multiple no-hitters. In 2011, Verlander claimed the AL MVP Award, earning the Pitching Triple Crown and throwing a no-hitter against the Blue Jays. His storied career also includes the 2006 AL Rookie of the Year Award, the 2017 ALCS MVP, and the 2022 AL Comeback Player of the Year.
The Yankees could be a logical destination for Verlander as they seek a veteran starting pitcher. While his 2024 season was challenging, his 2022 campaign (18-4 record, 1.75 ERA) proves he can still deliver elite performances when healthy. Verlander’s postseason experience (17-12 record, 3.58 ERA, 244 strikeouts in 38 appearances) makes him an attractive option for a Yankees team aiming for a World Series return. Adding Verlander would bolster the rotation alongside other rumored targets such as Corbin Burnes, Blake Snell, and Max Fried. At 42 in February, Verlander isn’t expected to fully replicate his prime years but could provide stability and leadership.
A return to Detroit could be a sentimental and practical fit for Verlander. Having spent the majority of his career with the Tigers, he remains one of the franchise’s most celebrated players, ranking second in strikeouts (2,372), seventh in wins (183), and eighth in innings pitched (2,511). With the Tigers looking to develop their young core, Verlander’s experience and leadership could be invaluable, especially in mentoring pitchers like Tarik Skubal. A reunion would also energize the fanbase, bringing back a legend who isn’t ready to retire yet. As Rich Hill continues to pitch effectively at 44, Verlander could still have a few more years of meaningful contributions left in him.
As free agency unfolds, the baseball world will eagerly watch where Verlander lands and how he performs in 2024, with hopes of another impressive chapter in his storied career.
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