It’s been nearly two decades since a Major League pitcher hit the 300-win milestone - a number that once defined greatness on the mound. The last to do it?
Randy Johnson, back in 2009 with the San Francisco Giants. Now, 17 years later, Justin Verlander is the closest active pitcher to that hallowed number.
But with Father Time creeping in - Verlander turns 43 later this month - the window is narrowing.
Here’s where things stand: Verlander sits at 266 career wins. That means he’d need 34 more to join the exclusive 300 club.
In today’s game, where starters are pulled early and wins are harder to come by, that’s a tall order. Especially considering he managed just four wins across 29 starts last season in San Francisco.
To get there, Verlander would likely have to pitch well into his mid-40s - think Jamie Moyer territory. But if there’s one thing Verlander has made clear over the years, it’s that betting against him is a dangerous game. From Tommy John surgery to career resurgences, he’s made a habit of defying expectations.
So what’s next for the future Hall of Famer?
With pitchers and catchers set to report in less than two weeks, Verlander is still unsigned. That said, his second half of the 2025 season showed he’s still got gas in the tank. In 14 starts after the All-Star break, he posted a 2.99 ERA - a reminder that when healthy, he can still be a difference-maker.
A return to the Giants isn’t off the table, but it’s complicated. San Francisco’s rotation is already crowded.
They’ve brought in Tyler Mahle and Adrian Houser to join Logan Webb, Robbie Ray, and Landen Roupp. That’s five arms right there - and not a lot of wiggle room.
Meanwhile, other familiar destinations could be in play. The Detroit Tigers - where Verlander became a household name - and the Houston Astros - where he won two rings - have both been linked to him this offseason.
And don’t sleep on the Baltimore Orioles. According to reports, they’ve expressed interest as well, and they’re in a win-now window where a veteran presence like Verlander’s could make a real impact.
Wherever he lands, the goal remains the same: contribute, compete, and - maybe, just maybe - chase history. Verlander’s path to 300 wins is steep, but if anyone’s earned the benefit of the doubt, it’s him.