Tigers' Justin Verlander and Troy Melton engage in chess match

Veteran pitcher Verlander challenges young pitcher Melton to a game of chess, drawing a crowd of teammates

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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Detroit Tigers pitchers Justin Verlander and Troy Melton engaged in a chess match in the team's clubhouse, drawing a crowd of their teammates who watched the competitive game unfold. Verlander, a future Hall of Famer, challenged the 25-year-old Melton to a game, and the two battled it out while their teammates observed and commented on the moves. The game highlighted the camaraderie and team-building moments that can happen in a professional sports clubhouse.

Why it matters

These types of informal, behind-the-scenes interactions between veteran and young players are important for building team chemistry and helping the newer players feel comfortable around the more established stars. Verlander's willingness to engage in a friendly competition with Melton shows his leadership and ability to connect with his teammates, which can be crucial for a team's success.

The details

Verlander, who is entering his 21st MLB season, approached Melton as he was doing a crossword puzzle and asked if anyone wanted to play chess. Melton, who is 25 years old, agreed, and the two began a competitive game as a crowd of their teammates gathered to watch. The game was close, with Melton making some bold moves, but Verlander ultimately emerged victorious. However, Verlander promised Melton that there would be more chess matches to come.

  • The chess match took place on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, during the Detroit Tigers' spring training in Lakeland, Florida.

The players

Justin Verlander

A future Hall of Fame pitcher who is entering his 21st MLB season, Verlander is a veteran leader on the Tigers' pitching staff and is known for his competitive spirit and ability to connect with his teammates.

Troy Melton

A 25-year-old pitcher in the Tigers' organization, Melton is a rising young talent who is looking to establish himself at the major league level and is eager to learn from experienced players like Verlander.

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What they’re saying

“It's not lost on me, he's one of the best pitchers of all time, and how much he means to this team especially. None of that's lost on me. But at the same time, we're playing chess. He's my teammate, Justin.”

— Troy Melton, Tigers pitcher

“I just think JV brings big crowds. I think he realizes how important he is to this organization, to this team, everything. It's been really cool just being around him as little as I have, and then being able to have the interactions I've had. It means a lot to me, obviously, because he's what I aspire to be.”

— Troy Melton, Tigers pitcher

What’s next

Verlander and Melton plan to have more chess matches in the future, as Verlander promised Melton after their initial game.

The takeaway

The chess match between Verlander and Melton showcases the importance of veteran players connecting with younger teammates and creating a positive, collaborative clubhouse environment. These types of informal interactions can help build team chemistry and camaraderie, which can be crucial for a team's success on the field.