Early HRs off Verlander lead Yankees past Tigers

Detroit's ace pitcher struggles in spring training matchup

Mar. 13, 2026 at 10:25am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In a spring training game, New York Yankees hitters were able to connect for multiple home runs off Detroit Tigers veteran pitcher Justin Verlander, leading to a Yankees victory over the Tigers.

Why it matters

Spring training games provide an early look at how teams and star players are shaping up ahead of the upcoming MLB regular season. Verlander's struggles against the Yankees could be an early sign of potential issues for the Tigers' pitching staff.

The details

Verlander, the Tigers' longtime ace, gave up back-to-back home runs to Yankees batters in the early innings of the spring training matchup. This performance raised concerns about Verlander's form and the Tigers' pitching depth heading into the new season.

  • The spring training game took place on March 13, 2026.

The players

Justin Verlander

A veteran right-handed pitcher for the Detroit Tigers.

New York Yankees

The professional baseball team based in New York City that competed against the Detroit Tigers in this spring training game.

Detroit Tigers

The professional baseball team based in Detroit, Michigan that featured pitcher Justin Verlander in this spring training matchup.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This early spring training game suggests the Detroit Tigers may need to address concerns about their pitching staff, particularly the performance of veteran ace Justin Verlander, as they prepare for the upcoming MLB regular season.