Justin Verlander is back in a Tigers uniform - and not a moment too soon.
Detroit’s rotation just took a major hit with the news that right-hander Reese Olson will miss the entire 2026 season following surgery to repair a torn labrum in his throwing shoulder. It’s a tough blow for a young arm who showed real promise last year before a shoulder strain cut his season short in July. Now, with Olson officially placed on the 60-day injured list, the Tigers had an open spot on the 40-man roster - and they filled it with a familiar face.
Verlander signed a one-year, $13 million deal Tuesday, returning to the club where his Hall of Fame career began. And while he’s not the same flame-throwing 20-something who once dominated Comerica Park, his presence brings a blend of leadership, experience, and still-effective pitching that Detroit will lean on in a big way this season.
Let’s not forget: Olson had quietly become one of the more reliable arms in the Tigers’ rotation. In 13 starts last year, he posted a 3.15 ERA over 68.2 innings and struck out nearly 23% of the batters he faced.
That’s solid production for a young starter still finding his groove at the big league level. Losing him for the entire year is no small thing.
But Verlander’s arrival helps soften the blow - and more than that, it signals Detroit’s intent to contend.
A Rotation Built to Compete
With Verlander in the mix, Detroit’s rotation suddenly looks like one of the most formidable in the league - at least on paper.
Tarik Skubal, who’s entering a contract year, is coming off back-to-back AL Cy Young Awards and looks every bit the ace of this staff. He’s got the stuff, the command, and the poise to lead a playoff-caliber rotation.
Framber Valdez, signed this offseason to a three-year, $115 million deal, brings a steady, durable presence. Over the last five seasons, he’s been one of the most consistent starters in the game, and his ability to eat innings and keep the ball on the ground should play well in spacious Comerica Park.
Add Verlander to that mix - even at age 43 - and you’ve got a trio that can match up with just about anyone. He may not be the overpowering force he once was, but Verlander’s pitchability, competitiveness, and ability to rise to the moment still make him a valuable weapon, especially in a clubhouse with younger arms looking to take the next step.
Looking Ahead
The hope is that Olson can return to form in 2027, when he’ll be fully recovered and ready to rejoin the rotation. By then, Verlander may have hung up his spikes, potentially closing the book on one of the most decorated pitching careers of this generation. But for now, the Tigers are focused on the present - and with Verlander back in the fold, they’ve got the pieces to make some real noise.
This isn’t just a feel-good reunion. It’s a calculated move by a team that sees an opportunity in a wide-open American League. And with a rotation built around power arms, proven veterans, and a touch of nostalgia, Detroit might just be ready to turn the corner.