Justin Verlander, a name synonymous with pitching excellence, is still going strong at 43. Back with the Detroit Tigers, Verlander continues to defy Father Time, adding another chapter to his storied career after a stint with the San Francisco Giants.
But even legends know when the final curtain is near. Verlander has a post-retirement plan in mind, as he shared with Foul Territory.
His biggest anticipation? Enjoying life without the rigorous prep for a start.
And, perhaps more importantly, he hopes to not miss the game that’s defined much of his life.
Verlander's journey began in 2005, kicking off what would become a remarkable 21-season career. From 2005 to 2017, he was a cornerstone for the Tigers, before a trade took him to the Houston Astros, where he played until 2022. He then returned to the Tigers from 2023 to 2024, with a brief stop at the New York Mets in 2023 and the Giants in 2025.
His trophy case is nothing short of impressive. Verlander boasts two World Series rings from 2017 and 2022, and he's a three-time NL Cy Young Award winner, earning the honor in 2011, 2019, and 2022.
Not to mention, his 2011 season was so dominant, it earned him the American League MVP Award. Over the years, he has been named an All-Star nine times, showcasing his consistent excellence.
Verlander’s career is also marked by three no-hitters, achieved in 2007, 2011, and 2019. A particularly memorable moment came in September 2019, when he notched his 3,000th career strikeout against the Los Angeles Angels, a game the Astros won 6-3.
Justin Verlander will not miss the prep time that goes into a start once he decides to retire.
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) March 16, 2026
He adds that the goal when he retires is "to not miss playing." pic.twitter.com/xqb4KkNhSL
As the Tigers gear up for the season during Spring Training, Verlander recently took the mound against the New York Yankees. He showed flashes of his enduring talent, pitching 3.1 innings with five strikeouts and two walks, despite the Tigers falling 4-3.
Verlander's career is a testament to longevity and excellence, and as he continues to pitch, fans are reminded of the brilliance he's brought to the mound year after year.