Justin Verlander, a decorated pitcher with three Cy Young Awards and two World Series titles, announced Wednesday that the 2026 Major League Baseball season will be his final one.
Verlander, 43, revealed his decision on social media, stating that the game itself has signaled it is time to retire. "Over the last several months, I’ve realized that time has come," Verlander wrote. "While I’m fully committed to giving my team everything I have for the rest of this season, I’ve decided this will be my last."
He will conclude his career where it began, with the Detroit Tigers, the organization that drafted him. Verlander spent his first 12-and-a-half seasons with the Tigers before being traded to the Houston Astros, where he achieved further success, including two World Series championships and two of his Cy Young Awards.
"It’s fitting that I get to finish where it all started – with the Detroit Tigers, the organization that drafted me and gave me my first opportunity," Verlander stated.
During his 22-year career, Verlander amassed at least 3,554 strikeouts, ranking him eighth all-time in MLB history. He is also the active leader in strikeouts and was a Cy Young Award finalist four other times. His 2022 season saw a career-best 1.75 ERA and a 0.829 WHIP.
Verlander's career highlights include winning the American League Rookie of the Year Award in 2006. He secured his first Cy Young Award and the MVP Award in 2011, followed by a second Cy Young Award in 2019. Despite missing the entire 2021 season due to Tommy John surgery, he returned to form and continued to pitch at a high level.
Verlander expressed gratitude to his teammates, coaches, organizations, and fans who have been part of his journey. He also thanked his family, particularly his wife Kate, for their unwavering support. "It’s time for the next chapter. But first, I’m excited to finish this season the only way I know how - with everything I’ve got," he concluded.