Justin Verlander fits right in with Tigers on Day 1 of spring training

Detroit Tigers legend Justin Verlander experienced his first day of spring training in TigerTown, marking his return after being traded in 2017.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Detroit Tigers legend Justin Verlander walked into the Tigers' clubhouse at the TigerTown complex on the first day of pitcher and catcher workouts, ready to get back to work with his former team. Verlander, who pitched for the Tigers from 2005-17 before being traded to the Houston Astros, is back on a one-year contract for the 2026 season. He was welcomed by fellow future Hall of Famer Kenley Jansen, and the two veteran pitchers enjoyed catching up and joking about their ages. Verlander chose not to speak to reporters on the first day, wanting to let new Tigers pitcher Framber Valdez have his moment in the spotlight at a press conference introducing him to the team.

Why it matters

Verlander's return to the Tigers after over eight years away is a significant moment for the franchise and its fans. As one of the greatest players in Tigers history, his presence in the clubhouse and on the mound is expected to provide a major boost to the team's pitching staff and championship aspirations. The Tigers are hoping Verlander can help mentor the team's young pitchers and provide veteran leadership as they look to make a deep playoff run.

The details

On the first day of spring training, Verlander went through a series of drills and played catch with bullpen catcher Tim Remes, one of the few remaining holdovers from Verlander's first stint with the Tigers. Verlander was later joined by fellow starters Tarik Skubal, Framber Valdez, and Jack Flaherty, and the group discussed pitching mechanics and strategies. Verlander chose not to speak to reporters, wanting to let Valdez have his moment in the spotlight at a press conference introducing him to the team.

  • Justin Verlander walked into the Tigers' clubhouse on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, the first day of pitcher and catcher workouts.
  • Verlander turns 43 years old on February 20, 2026.

The players

Justin Verlander

A 20-year MLB veteran and future Hall of Famer who pitched for the Detroit Tigers from 2005-2017 before being traded to the Houston Astros. He is returning to the Tigers on a one-year contract for the 2026 season.

Kenley Jansen

MLB's active saves leader, who is also a future Hall of Famer and will be Verlander's teammate on the 2026 Tigers.

Framber Valdez

A new pitcher the Tigers signed, who was introduced to the team in a press conference on Verlander's first day of spring training.

Tim Remes

The Tigers' bullpen catcher, who is one of the few remaining holdovers from Verlander's first stint with the team.

Tarik Skubal

A starting pitcher for the Tigers, who joined Verlander and the other starters in playing catch on the first day of spring training.

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What they’re saying

“I'm excited to see him here in this clubhouse, and I'm excited to be here for the first time. It's going to be fun. I'm already feeling it. We're excited to get going.”

— Kenley Jansen (Instagram)

“It makes me feel great that they took time out of their day to be with me here. I hope to be a contributing member of that group. A rising tide raises all boats. For them to be there, they're best in class.”

— Framber Valdez (Instagram)

What’s next

The Tigers will hold a press conference at 8:15 a.m. on Thursday, February 12, 2026 to formally introduce Justin Verlander to the media.

The takeaway

Verlander's return to the Tigers after over eight years away is a feel-good story for the franchise and its fans. His veteran leadership and mentorship of the team's young pitchers could be invaluable as the Tigers look to make a deep playoff run in 2026.