Clearwater, FL - Justin Verlander Returns to Detroit
The baseball world is buzzing as Justin Verlander, at 43, prepares to make his much-anticipated return to Comerica Park. Mark your calendars for April 5, when the Detroit Tigers host the St.
Louis Cardinals on NBC's "Sunday Night Baseball." It’s been a long 3,150 days since Verlander last pitched for the Tigers at Comerica, back on August 20, 2017, before he was traded to the Houston Astros.
Manager A.J. Hinch shared the exciting news before the Tigers wrapped up their Grapefruit League schedule. "He's going to get mad if he ever hears me talking about being nostalgic," Hinch joked, highlighting Verlander's competitive spirit and the uncertainty of how many more years he might pitch.
Verlander's journey back to Detroit came with a one-year, $13 million deal signed in mid-February for the 2026 season. His illustrious career began with the Tigers in 2005, and since then, he’s made 555 starts, with 192 at Comerica Park. His record there speaks volumes: a 3.16 ERA over 1,280⅔ innings.
Hinch praises Verlander's mindset, "Maybe it's age, maybe it's experience, maybe it's appreciation for where he's at in history," he reflects. "I think he's very settled in where he's at and what he's doing, and then he gets to competing."
Before Verlander takes the mound, fans will see left-hander Framber Valdez in action on April 3 against the Cardinals. Valdez, 32, is making his first home start for the Tigers after signing a two-year, $75 million contract, complete with player and mutual options for future seasons.
The Tigers have set their rotation for the season's start, featuring lefty Tarik Skubal, Valdez, right-hander Jack Flaherty, Verlander, and Casey Mize. This lineup is set to kick off with a six-game road trip against the Padres and Diamondbacks.
Hinch is optimistic about the rotation's potential. "I've seen good rotations feed off one another," he said.
"Starting pitching is not just a source of pride but production. I would expect them to push one another quite a bit."
FanGraphs projects the Tigers to have the second-best rotation in MLB, only behind the Boston Red Sox. With Opening Day just around the corner, anticipation is building for what could be a memorable season.
"Probably gain some information from each guy," Hinch noted about the rotation's diverse talents. "It's a wealth of knowledge."
The stage is set for an exciting season in Detroit, with Verlander's return adding a thrilling chapter to his storied career.