According to Bob Nightengale, “Detroit Tigers great Justin Verlander, who was scheduled to make his first start Sunday night at Comerica Park since 2017, is now going on the 15-day IL with left hip inflammation.” The update confirms the setback just as Verlander was preparing for a meaningful moment in front of Detroit fans.

At 43, Verlander is the oldest active player in Major League Baseball and returned to Detroit this offseason on a one-year, $13 million deal after spending last season with the San Francisco Giants. He made 380 starts for the Tigers between 2005 and 2017, establishing himself as one of the franchise’s most iconic pitchers.

Rotation adjustment after Verlander setback

With Verlander sidelined, the Tigers have recalled right-hander Keider Montero from Triple-A Toledo. He is expected to start the series finale against the St. Louis Cardinals, giving Detroit a temporary replacement as they adjust their rotation plans.

Verlander struggled in his season debut, allowing five runs on six hits in 3⅔ innings against the Arizona Diamondbacks, but the focus now shifts to his recovery timeline rather than performance.

What this means for Detroit moving forward

The injury postpones an emotional milestone for both Verlander and the organization, as his return to Comerica Park was expected to be one of the early highlights of the Tigers’ season.

Detroit will now rely on its pitching depth while monitoring Verlander’s progress, hoping the veteran can return soon and provide stability to the rotation as the season unfolds.

While both pitchers occupy top spots in the rotation, Skubal remains the undisputed No. 1 while the 42-year-old Verlander provides elite veteran depth. However, for Skubal, the primary focus is the opportunity to spend time with and learn from the man he considered a childhood idol.

“When we were kind of tinkering around with [signing Verlander], I got a little early insight on it, and I was giddy as a kid. Like, this is a childhood idol that I get to be locker mates with,” Skubal said, according to Jason Beck of MLB.com. “I want to do all the things that he’s done and accomplish all the things that he has accomplished in his career. It’s going to be awesome to be locker mates with him“.

Despite being one of the premier pitchers in baseball today, Skubal believes there is still much to learn from Verlander, a two-time World Series champion. The 29-year-old star indicated that the mentorship will happen naturally given the amount of time the staff spends together.

“The baseball stuff will happen, because we’re going to spend a lot of time together, whether we like it or not. It’s going to be seven months together. We’re going to spend more time with these guys than our families. All the baseball stuff will kind of happen naturally—quick questions,” Skubal added.

Verlander on teaming up with Skubal

The excitement regarding the reunion isn’t one-sided. The 42-year-old Verlander expressed a similar sentiment, eager to work alongside one of the league’s most dominant arms.

During his introductory press conference, Verlander noted that he is anxious to observe Skubal’s work ethic, emphasizing that there is always something to learn from the best in the game.

“I’m excited to just see him work, and I think you can learn from anybody—adapt or die. I try to learn always. I asked Framber (Valdez) back in Houston how he throws his curveball, because that thing’s nasty. I’m excited to just learn,” Verlander noted.

“See his routine, see what he does behind the scenes, if there’s anything I can help with, if there’s anything he can help me with. You know, guys that are that great, there’s always something to glean from that,” he concluded.

At 42 years old, Verlander is no longer the overpowering ace he once was, but his presence carries value that extends far beyond the stat sheet. The Tigers are adding leadership, experience, and a competitive standard to a rotation that continues to blend young talent with established arms.

MLB insider Jeff Passan confirmed the agreement on social media, emphasizing the full-circle nature of the deal. “Right-hander Justin Verlander and the Detroit Tigers are in agreement on a one-year contract. Verlander, 43 next week, returns to the team with which he spent his first 13 seasons and whose hat he’ll wear in the Hall of Fame,” Passan reported.

A fitting chapter in a Hall of Fame career

Verlander’s return also carries symbolic weight. Detroit is the organization where he spent 13 seasons — from 2005 to 2017 — and where he became a Cy Young winner, MVP, and one of the defining pitchers of his generation, a legacy that will ultimately be cemented in Cooperstown.

Whether this season represents a final run or simply another chapter, the reunion feels appropriate. For the Tigers, it strengthens both the roster and the franchise narrative; for Verlander, it brings him back to the place where everything began.

According to a report by MLB.com‘s Mark Feinsand, opinions vary among MLB executives about the future prospects of Verlander and Scherzer, two prominent names still available in the upcoming season’s free agency market.

Despite rumors linking both veterans to the Tigers and the Baltimore Orioles, and with the Blue Jays reportedly interested in reuniting with Scherzer, uncertainty still clouds their future in the league. Some executives believe they have one last opportunity to showcase their skills, although several factors must be weighed before any offers are extended.

“I think they both have something left in the tank,” an American League executive told Feinsand. Another executive added, “Out of respect for these two future Hall of Famers, I wouldn’t want to completely discount what they might achieve in a shorter stretch in 2026. It’s just difficult to rely on it for the majority of the season.“

An executive’s advice for Verlander and Scherzer

As some franchises reportedly show interest in signing these seasoned players for the next season, one executive shared thoughts on Verlander and Scherzer’s potential futures, offering advice as they look toward the upcoming season.

“Signing toward the end of April, ramping up in May, and delivering around 70 innings could be an ideal path,” the executive suggested to Feinsand, particularly for Scherzer as he strategizes for the next year.

Teams pursuing Verlander and Scherzer

In addition to the Orioles and Tigers expressing interest in both players, other franchises have identified them as prime targets to strengthen their rosters for the forthcoming season.

Here are the teams interested in each player:

• Justin Verlander: Houston Astros, Detroit Tigers, Baltimore Orioles, and Philadelphia Phillies.
• Max Scherzer: Toronto Blue Jays, Detroit Tigers, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Baltimore Orioles.

A player who fits that description is Justin Verlander, the 9-time All-Star right-hander. Entering his 21st MLB season, Verlander still offers reliable innings and experience. Last year, he posted a 3.85 ERA over 29 starts, showing he can still perform at a high level while mentoring younger pitchers.

With Zack Wheeler potentially missing time early and Taijuan Walker remaining inconsistent, the Phillies could benefit from adding a proven arm. Andrew Painter is expected to make his debut next season, but a rookie is unlikely to immediately shoulder a full rotation workload.

Why Justin Verlander makes sense for Philadelphia

Verlander’s addition could allow Walker to shift to the bullpen full-time, increasing flexibility. Fox Sports suggested a one-year deal around $10 million, which would add rotation depth without significant financial risk.

“The Phillies have been eliminated in the NL Division Series in each of the last two seasons, but the positional talent—highlighted by Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber, and Trea Turner—and rotation core are still in place to contend for the pennant. It’s a matter of coming through in crunch time and, beforehand, ascertaining they have competent depth across the board. Verlander fits the bill,” the report said.

Postseason experience is key

Verlander’s playoff resume speaks for itself. He has pitched in 38 postseason games, reached the World Series five times, and maintains a 3.58 postseason ERA.

A former MVP, three-time Cy Young winner, two-time World Series champion, and Triple Crown winner, Verlander brings leadership and big-game experience to a Phillies team eager to advance deeper into October.

Verlander, the three-time Cy Young Award winner and former AL MVP, remains unsigned as he approaches his 43rd birthday and prepares for what would be his 21st MLB season. His track record as a durable innings-eater makes him an attractive option for a team looking to compete in the AL East.

MLB Network’s Jon Morosi reported that the Orioles are considering Verlander as a potential addition to their rotation. According to Morosi, Baltimore is looking to add at least one more starting pitcher this offseason, with Verlander still available as an unsigned free agent, highlighting the team’s rotation-focused strategy.

Why Verlander could be a fit in Baltimore

Verlander posted a 3.85 ERA and 137 strikeouts over 29 starts in 2025 with the San Francisco Giants, showing he can still deliver innings and contribute meaningfully. His 152.0 innings pitched and season-long WAR of 1.2 underscore his durability, making him a strong candidate for a team seeking veteran leadership in the rotation.

Orioles’ offseason moves

Baltimore’s recent acquisitions signal a commitment to contend after finishing 75-87 last season. Adding a veteran like Verlander would complement its existing rotation and provide guidance for younger pitchers, reinforcing a team already reshaped through signings and trades.

The Braves announced via their official social media channels that they will be without a key player for the season opener. “INF Ha-Seong Kim sustained a hand injury while in Korea and underwent surgery to repair a torn tendon in his right middle finger,” the team revealed.

Following the surgery, Kim is expected to be sidelined for 4-5 months, leaving the Braves without the services of the Korean infielder as they gear up for the regular season. This unforeseen challenge forces the team to explore alternatives to fill the gap in their lineup.

Originally acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays halfway through last season, Ha-Seong Kim was poised to make a significant contribution to the Braves in 2026. He was considered a key offseason addition following last year’s campaign.

Kim’s impact in his debut season with the Braves

Despite an overall disappointing end to the Braves’ season, Kim emerged as a valuable asset during his brief tenure on the field. His performance convinced Atlanta of his potential, prompting the team to secure him for the 2026 season with a one-year contract.

• Games Played: 24
• Batting Average: .253
• Home Runs: 3
• RBIs: 12
• OPS: .684
• Fielding %: .982

Braves’ projected lineup without Kim

With Kim unexpectedly sidelined just as the regular season looms, the Braves are now tasked with reorganizing their roster to establish their Opening Day lineup in his absence.

The projected lineup is as follows:

1. Ronald Acuña Jr. RF
2. Ozzie Albies 2B
3. Austin Riley 3B
4. Matt Olson 1B
5. Michael Harris II CF
6. Jurickson Profar LF
7. Drake Baldwin DH
8. Sean Murphy C
9. Mauricio Dubon SS

Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports that Verlander is attracting interest from multiple MLB teams, with the Baltimore Orioles emerging as one of the most ardent potential suitors for the seasoned 42-year-old pitcher.

The Orioles, who have shown interest in other free agents like Framber Valdez, aim to strengthen their roster with an experienced player. The addition of a veteran presence like Verlander would provide inspiration and leadership to their young talents.

Verlander stands on the brink of entering his 21st MLB season if he secures a deal this offseason. This appears plausible, as the Orioles are not the only team reportedly eyeing the seasoned pitcher.

Potential destinations for Verlander next season

While the Orioles seem to lead the chase for Verlander’s services, other franchises have reportedly shown interest in signing him for the next season, and there are a couple of surprising names in that list.

According to Fox Sports, a reunion with the Detroit Tigers could also be on the horizon for Verlander. After 13 seasons with the Tigers, playing for them again seems possible, perhaps even by 2026.

The San Francisco Giants, San Diego Padres, and Atlanta Braves are also reportedly in the hunt for Verlander. His vast experience and leadership would be invaluable in sharpening their bullpen and mentoring younger players.

Nevertheless, Verlander recently demonstrated the immense value of his two decades of MLB experience with a landmark achievement: he notched his first victory at Oracle Park as a member of the Giants. Moreover, he surpassed Hall of Famer Walter Johnson on the all-time career strikeouts list.

Verlander now boasts a total of 3,520 strikeouts, moving past Johnson into ninth place on that prestigious list. Johnson had recorded 3,515 strikeouts during his 21-year tenure with the Washington Nationals (Senators) in Major League Baseball.

When asked by the media about reaching this milestone, Verlander offered a reflective response. “Maybe when I rest my head on my pillow tonight, or perhaps in the offseason, I’ll fully appreciate this achievement,” he commented following the game. “In recent years, especially after returning from Tommy John surgery, I’ve made it a point to pay more attention to these career milestones.”

Verlander recalls bad episode at Oracle Park

In a recent post-game press conference, Verlander spoke candidly about his latest milestone: his first victory at Oracle Park. However, he also used this platform to reflect on one of the more challenging episodes of his storied career, recalling his time with the Detroit Tigers against the Giants.

“I mean no offense, but I wish I had one back in 2012,” Verlander remarked, referring to the elusive victory during the 2012 World Series. His Tigers were fiercely aiming for the championship, and the loss at Oracle Park was a pivotal moment that contributed to the team falling short.

Now in his 20th MLB season, Verlander continues to be a significant presence, both for his on-field performance and his insightful commentary. While the Giants are navigating staff changes this season, Verlander remains a standout figure, striving to make an impact on a team that has been grappling with inconsistencies throughout the year.

Despite his role as the team’s ace, Verlander’s current performance falls short of the high standards he’s established over his illustrious 20-year MLB career. This disparity has fueled widespread debate among fans on social media platforms, where discussions about Verlander’s form this season are rampant.

Amidst this challenging scenario, the social media discourse reached Verlander’s brother, Ben. With criticism swirling around the 42-year-old pitcher, Ben took to social media to express his perspective on the factors contributing to Justin’s underwhelming performance with the Giants.

“I’m going to vent. Yes, it’s my brother. Yes, I’m biased. But Justin’s stats 100% do not tell the story of this season. He’s had many very good starts with truly some of the worst luck I’ve ever seen. It makes no sense to me. Really frustrating to watch. He’s still throwing 97 mph with nasty offspeed,” Ben Verlander wrote on his X account.

Fan reaction to Ben Verlander’s comments

Amidst a challenging stint with the Giants, the fan base is vocally expressing their discontent with Verlander on social media. In response to Ben Verlander’s remarks about his brother, reactions surfaced swiftly and were anything but congenial.

With comments such as “He should have signed with Detroit, baseball karma” and “He has 0 wins through 10+ starts LOL at some point, it’s not bad luck. He’s cooked,” fans voiced their displeasure, dismissing the notion of “bad luck” plaguing Verlander.

Verlander’s stats with the Giants

While fans attribute Justin’s performance to factors beyond mere luck, let’s delve into his statistics from this Giants season. Over 15 games, he has posted 0 wins against 7 losses, holding a 4.70 ERA, with 67 strikeouts over 76.2 innings pitched.

In those 15 appearances, he has surrendered 10 home runs and 45 runs on 83 hits. Also notable are his 1.422 WHIP and a WAR of -0.5, starkly contrasting the level at which he has previously performed, having won the MVP once and the Cy Young Award twice in his illustrious career. If his current trajectory continues, this could be one of his more challenging seasons yet.

One name gaining traction in the rumor mill is Jack Flaherty, the young pitcher the Dodgers acquired during last season’s trade deadline. Flaherty showcased his talent and poise in the postseason, taking the mound in pivotal games for Los Angeles. His combination of youth, skill, and experience on big stages makes him an appealing target for any team with championship aspirations.

Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher Report has predicted that the San Francisco Giants could land Flaherty this offseason. According to Rymer, San Francisco’s gap in the rotation and their aggressive approach to improving the roster make them a logical destination.

“Each club makes sense in its own way, but the (Baltimore) Orioles and Giants more than the others. The former has a Burnes-sized hole in its rotation that needs filling, while the latter made a run at Burnes before he chose the Diamondbacks,” Rymer explained. “Prediction: Flaherty ends up with the Giants on a three-year deal with a two-year player option.”

A Calculated Risk for San Francisco

Pursuing Flaherty does not come without its risks. The pitcher has experienced ups and downs throughout his career, and his health has been a recurring concern. Nevertheless, the Giants appear willing to take a chance on him. The franchise has consistently demonstrated its commitment to building a competitive roster, and adding a pitcher of Flaherty’s caliber would be a significant step toward solidifying their rotation.

The Giants’ Future in MLB

The coming days will reveal whether the rumors hold true and if Jack Flaherty will don a Giants uniform. Adding a pitcher of his talent could signify the start of a new chapter of success for San Francisco in the MLB.