Verlander Aims for Final Start in Tigers Farewell Series — SkimNews
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- Justin Verlander threw as hard as he has in over a month during a bullpen session with hitters standing in, signaling progress toward a potential final start.
- Detroit Tigers manager A.J. Hinch confirmed the team is aiming for Verlander to pitch during a two-day career celebration against the Pittsburgh Pirates in the final series of the season.
- Verlander announced his retirement plans in July after being named an AL All-Star Legend Pick in his 21st major league season.
- Verlander has been limited to one appearance this season due to hip inflammation and a subsequent hamstring pull during a bullpen session.
- The Tigers plan to prepare Verlander with live batting practice or a simulated game to avoid setbacks before a possible final outing.
- Verlander holds a career record of 266-159 with 3,554 strikeouts over 556 starts across the Tigers, Astros, Mets, and Giants, including three Cy Young Awards.
Why it matters: Verlander’s potential final start would mark the end of a 21-year career defined by elite performance and longevity. At 43, the oldest player in MLB, his return—even symbolic—carries weight for fans and the franchise, as the Tigers prepare a tribute befitting a player who shaped two decades of their history.
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