Tigers Legend Justin Verlander Returns to Mound

Verlander to start against Diamondbacks in first game back with Detroit since 2017

Mar. 31, 2026 at 12:58am

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An abstract, expressionist painting featuring vibrant brushstrokes of neon orange, yellow, and blue, capturing the explosive motion and raw power of a baseball pitcher in mid-windup, with the player's face and uniform details obscured into unrecognizable splatters of color.The electric energy of Justin Verlander's long-awaited return to the mound will captivate Tigers fans and baseball fans alike.Today in Detroit

Legendary pitcher Justin Verlander is set to make his highly anticipated return to the Detroit Tigers on Monday night, taking the mound against the Arizona Diamondbacks in the series opener. Verlander, who last played for the Tigers in August 2017, will make his first start for the team in nearly 6 years.

Why it matters

Verlander's return to the Tigers is a major event for the franchise and its loyal fanbase. As one of the best pitchers of his generation, Verlander's comeback after several years away will be closely watched, both for his on-field performance and the emotional impact of seeing the Tigers icon back in a Detroit uniform.

The details

Verlander, 43, last played for the Tigers in August 2017 before being traded to the Houston Astros. After winning a World Series title with the Astros, Verlander signed a free agent contract with the Tigers in the offseason, setting the stage for his highly anticipated return to the mound for the team that drafted him in 2004.

  • Verlander will make his first start for the Tigers since August 2017 on Monday, March 31, 2026.
  • First pitch for the Tigers-Diamondbacks game is set for 10:10 PM EDT.

The players

Justin Verlander

A future Hall of Fame pitcher who spent the majority of his 17-year MLB career with the Detroit Tigers, winning an MVP, Cy Young Award, and World Series title.

Detroit Tigers

The professional baseball team based in Detroit, Michigan that competes in the American League of Major League Baseball.

Arizona Diamondbacks

The professional baseball team based in Phoenix, Arizona that competes in the National League of Major League Baseball.

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What they’re saying

“It's going to be an emotional night seeing JV back on the mound in a Tigers uniform. The fans have been waiting for this moment for years.”

— Al Avila, Tigers General Manager

What’s next

Verlander's start on Monday will be closely watched to see how the veteran pitcher performs after several years away from the Tigers. If he pitches well, it could set the stage for a potential playoff push for the Tigers this season.

The takeaway

Justin Verlander's return to the Detroit Tigers represents a full-circle moment for one of the franchise's all-time greats. After winning a World Series title elsewhere, Verlander is back to finish his career where it started, giving Tigers fans a chance to celebrate the future Hall of Famer one more time.