Justin Verlander makes definitive statement on his future

San Francisco Giants pitcher Justin Verlander. Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

Justin Verlander makes definitive statement about his playing future

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports
By Darryn Albert | Last updated Sep 17, 2025 8:57 PM ET

San Francisco Giants ace Justin Verlander has really gotten his fastball back as of late, and it apparently has him feeling pretty darn good about himself.

The former Cy Young winner Verlander twirled a gem for the Giants on Wednesday during their game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona. Verlander threw seven shutout innings, allowing just three hits and two walks to help the Giants eventually secure a 5-1 victory in 11 innings.

Justin Verlander makes definitive statement on his future

Speaking with reporters after the game, the question of Verlander’s playing future came up. Verlander told the media that he “definitely” plans on pitching in 2026, per Bob Nightengale of USA Today Sports.

Justin Verlander says he definitely plans on pitching in 2026 after his sensational second half.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) September 17, 2025

Now 42 years old, Verlander had a horrific first half of the season for the Giants, going 0-8 with a rough 4.99 ERA through mid-July. But he came on incredibly strong in the second half and has now posted a sparkling 0.87 ERA in his last five starts to go along with 28 strikeouts over 31.0

The nine-time All-Star Verlander is not under contract for next season as his deal with the Giants is for one year (worth $15 million). 2026 would also mark Verlander’s 21st career season in Major League Baseball.

But Verlander is clearly still spry and has earned himself a long, hard look from interested MLB teams this winter thanks to his phenomenal second half. Verlander has long been praised for his longevity and is now putting together quite the resurgence after looking almost completely washed around this same time last season.

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

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