In a heartwarming twist of fate, the Detroit Tigers have brought Justin Verlander back into the fold with a one-year deal. For Tarik Skubal, this isn't just about adding a seasoned arm to the roster; it's about working alongside a childhood hero.
Skubal, who grew up idolizing Verlander, expressed his excitement in a chat with Ben Verlander, saying, “There's a saying to never meet your hero. That couldn't be more wrong.”
Verlander's journey with the Tigers began on July 4, 2005, and after nearly 21 years, he’s returning to the team that launched his illustrious career. His last stint with Detroit ended in 2017, after which he was traded to the Houston Astros.
Following successful seasons there, he had a brief tenure with the New York Mets before heading back to Houston. Now, he’s back where it all began.
For Skubal, a two-time AL Cy Young winner, Verlander's return is both sentimental and inspiring. Skubal, fresh off a stellar season with a 13-6 record and a league-best 2.21 ERA, was thrilled by the news. Meanwhile, Verlander, who recently played for the San Francisco Giants, posted a 4-11 record with a 3.85 ERA over 29 starts.
As Spring Training kicks off, Skubal is already making waves, fueled by the presence of the pitcher who shaped his baseball dreams. While Verlander may be in the latter stages of his career, his experience and mentorship could prove invaluable to Skubal and the Tigers. Together, they aim to push beyond the Divisional Round and set their sights on a World Series run.