3-Time Cy Young Winner Justin Verlander Makes Big Announcement

July 08, 2026
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It's been a long 21-year, storied career in the majors for Justin Verlander. But the 43-year-old has announced that this will officially be his last season and he will retire after the 2026 campaign. 

The announcement comes minutes after commissioner Rob Manfred announced that Verlander has been named to the AL roster as a “Legend Pick” for the 2026 All-Star Game.  

The three-time Cy Young winner is back where it all began this season, with the Detroit Tigers. But he has only managed to pitch in one game due to a variety of injuries.  

"I never wanted to retire because of a milestone, a number, or a date on the calendar," Verlander wrote in a statement posted to social media. "I wanted the game to tell me when it was time. Over the last several months, I've realized that time has come. While I'm fully committed to giving my team everything I have for the rest of this season, I've decided this will be my last. It's fitting that I get to finish where it all started -- with the Detroit Tigers."

Verlander ranks among the greatest ever to take a mound in the majors. His 3,554 strikeouts rank eighth in MLB history, and he is one of only two pitchers in history (with Don Newcombe) to win Rookie of the Year, Cy Young and MVP honors. He also has two World Series rings.

The Tigers & Astros' great is also one of just six pitchers in history to throw at least three no-hitters. 

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