Justin Verlander Tears Up During Emotional Farewell to MLB Career
The decorated pitcher, joined by wife Kate Upton and their children, marked the end of his storied Major League Baseball tenure with the Detroit Tigers.
Justin Verlander became visibly emotional as he took the field for what is slated to be the final start of his Major League Baseball career with the Detroit Tigers. He was joined by his wife, model Kate Upton, and their two children.
Verlander, a celebrated figure in baseball with two World Series titles, 10 All-Star selections, and three Cy Young Awards, had announced earlier this year that the current season would mark his retirement. His final scheduled appearance was set for Saturday against the Pittsburgh Pirates as part of the Tigers' last homestand of the regular season.
Before Friday night's game at Comerica Park, Verlander was honored by the team and fans. His daughter, Genevieve, 7, threw out the ceremonial first pitch, running to embrace her father after his catch. Verlander's son, Bellamy, 1, was also present with Upton.
Verlander, who began his career with the Tigers in 2005 and returned for his final season after a stint with other teams, expressed his enduring connection to the franchise. "I am, and always will be, a Detroit Tiger," he told the crowd.
In a press conference earlier in the day, Verlander reflected on his decision to retire. "I feel like I ran my race. I gave it everything I had," he stated. He cited the desire to spend more time with his young children, noting how quickly time passes and the moments he has already missed with his daughter.
While Verlander achieved significant career milestones with 266 major league victories, he acknowledged a personal disappointment in not reaching the 300-win mark. "I think it's all how you look at it, right? I could be sad for what maybe I didn't do. I didn't make 300 wins. That was a goal," he said, adding that he has no regrets about his effort.
Verlander and Upton, a Sports Illustrated swimsuit model, met in 2012 and began dating in 2014. They married in Italy in 2017, shortly after Verlander won the World Series with the Houston Astros. Upton has been a consistent source of support throughout the latter stages of his career.
In past reflections, Verlander has spoken about Upton's crucial role in helping him navigate difficult periods in his career, describing her as instrumental during times of depression and career uncertainty.