Justin Verlander. Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

Justin Verlander returning to a former team for 2026 season

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated Feb 10, 2026 2:13 PM ET

Justin Verlander will play at least one more season in Major League Baseball.

Verlander is signing a one-year contract with the Detroit Tigers, according to Jeff Passan of ESPN. It marks a return to the team he debuted with and spent the bulk of his career with.

Jon Heyman of the New York Post reported that Verlander will get $13 million, with most of it deferred.

Verlander turns 43 next week, and it is fair to question whether he will have a huge role in the rotation. The team has a crowded pitching staff, especially after signing Framber Valdez last week. However, it will certainly qualify as a feel-good signing for a fan base that still has a high opinion of its former ace.

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

While Verlander is not the pitcher he once was, he can still get outs. He made 29 starts for the San Francisco Giants last year and posted a 3.85 ERA. Regardless of the context, posting a slightly above-average season at the age of 42 is remarkable.

Verlander initially played for the Tigers from 2005 to 2017. He won two Cy Young Awards and an AL MVP Award while a member of the team, and was part of four playoff teams. He joins the Tigers fresh off an 87-75 season and an ALDS appearance.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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