Justin Verlander Returns to Detroit Tigers at 42

Veteran pitcher aims to lead and mentor young staff while strengthening Tigers' rotation in 2024 season.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Baseball legend Justin Verlander has signed a one-year, $13 million contract to return to the Detroit Tigers, the team where he launched his storied career over 20 years ago. Now 42 years old, Verlander will embark on his 21st MLB season, bringing his wealth of experience and leadership to a Tigers rotation that features young stars like Tarik Skubal and newly signed Framber Valdez.

Why it matters

Verlander's return to Detroit is more than just a sentimental homecoming - it's a strategic move that bolsters the Tigers' pitching staff as they aim to compete more strongly in the American League. His rare combination of elite skill, durability, and veteran presence is expected to influence both the on-field performance and clubhouse culture of the team.

The details

After 13 dominant seasons with the Tigers early in his career, Verlander went on to win two Cy Young Awards and two World Series titles with the Houston Astros. Despite a rollercoaster 2023 season with the Giants, he finished strong and convinced the Tigers he still has plenty left in the tank at 42 years old. Verlander will now join a rotation that features the two-time defending AL Cy Young winner Skubal, as well as new addition Framber Valdez, his former Astros teammate.

  • Verlander signed a one-year, $13 million contract with the Detroit Tigers on February 10, 2026.
  • Verlander will turn 43 years old on February 20, 2026, just days after joining the Tigers.

The players

Justin Verlander

A future Hall of Fame pitcher who first rose to prominence with the Detroit Tigers, winning a Cy Young Award and leading the team to the World Series. After 13 seasons in Detroit, he went on to win two more Cy Young Awards and two World Series titles with the Houston Astros before returning to the Tigers in 2026 at age 42.

Tarik Skubal

The two-time defending American League Cy Young Award winner, who will anchor the Detroit Tigers' starting rotation alongside the returning Verlander.

Framber Valdez

A left-handed pitcher who recently signed with the Tigers and previously played with Verlander on the championship Houston Astros teams.

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What’s next

As pitchers and catchers report to spring training, all eyes will be on how the 42-year-old Verlander adapts and performs in his return to Detroit. His contract reflects the Tigers' confidence in his ability to contribute meaningfully, and his presence alongside young stars like Skubal sets the stage for an intriguing 2024 season.

The takeaway

Justin Verlander's homecoming to Detroit represents more than just a sentimental reunion - it's a strategic move that brings a rare combination of elite talent, veteran leadership, and championship pedigree to a Tigers team poised to compete in the American League. Verlander's reinvention and continued excellence at an advanced age make this a compelling story to follow as the 2024 season approaches.