Baseball icon Justin Verlander marked his final All-Star Game appearance with a notable presence on the red carpet, accompanied by his wife, model Kate Upton, and their children. The 43-year-old Verlander, who announced his impending retirement from Major League Baseball at the end of the 2026 season earlier this month, attended the Midsummer Classic in Philadelphia.
The Detroit Tigers pitcher, honored at the event, did not pitch due to recovering from a hamstring injury. This appearance marked the final All-Star Game of his extensive career. Verlander was joined by Upton and their children, daughter Genevieve, 7, and son Bellamy, who is one year old, in a rare family appearance.
Upton, a celebrated actress, drew attention in a white off-the-shoulder minidress, while Verlander sported a classic blue suit with a white shirt, forgoing a tie. Their daughter Genevieve wore a matching white dress, and baby Bellamy was dressed in brown overalls.
Though unable to pitch, Verlander played a role in the pregame activities. Toronto manager John Schneider invited Verlander to address the American League team, sharing insights on the significance of the All-Star honor. Verlander also advised American League starter Dylan Cease against throwing a changeup as the first pitch, suggesting a fastball instead against Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber. Cease ultimately struck out the side in the first inning, and commented on Verlander's influence by saying, "He could be a politician."
The American League secured a 4-0 victory over the National League, with Yankees star Cody Bellinger earning MVP honors. Verlander, who joined the Tigers on a one-year, $13 million contract in February, was named to the All-Star team as a Legend Pick by Commissioner Rob Manfred. Phillies slugger Bryce Harper received the same honor in the National League.
Verlander's distinguished MLB career spans 21 seasons. He is a 10-time All-Star, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, and a two-time World Series champion. His record includes 266 wins against 159 losses, a 3.33 earned run average, and 3,554 strikeouts over 3,571.1 innings pitched.