DETROIT (WWJ) -- Future MLB Hall of Famer Justin Verlander has announced that the 2026 season will be his last.
The 43-year-old ace, who returned to the Detroit Tigers this past offseason, revealed his decision in a letter to fans following his honorary selection to the upcoming All-Star Game.
Verlander, a three-time Cy Young winner who spent his first 13 seasons anchoring Detroit's rotation before winning two titles in Houston, noted that a grueling 21st big-league season helped him realize it was time to step away.
Verlander wrote:
"I’ve always believed that as long as I could compete at the level I expect of myself, I’d keep playing. I never wanted to retire because of a milestone, a number, or a date on the calendar. I wanted the game to tell me when it was time. Over the last several months, I’ve realized that time has come."
While he expressed excitement for "the next chapter" alongside his wife, Kate, and his family, the legendary right-hander emphasized that he isn't shutting it down just yet.
He says plans to pitch out the remainder of the year in the uniform "where it all started."
Below is the full letter shared by Verlander on Wednesday.
I want to thank the Commissioner for the incredible honor of being selected to the All-Star game. The opportunity to attend once again is something I’ll cherish, and it will be an incredibly special moment for me and my family.
This season has challenged me in ways I haven’t experienced before, both physically and mentally. I’ve always believed that as long as I could compete at the level I expect of myself, I’d keep playing. I never wanted to retire because of a milestone, a number, or a date on the calendar. 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, the organization that drafted me and gave me my first opportunity.
Baseball has given me more than I could have imagined. It taught me discipline, resilience, and the value of continuing to adapt and evolve. I’ve been fortunate to play with and against incredible players, for outstanding organizations, and compete in-front of fans who deeply appreciate the game.
To every teammate, coach, player, clubhouse attendant, and fan who has been part of this journey – thank you. It’s been a privilege to share the field with you. To my family, especially my wife Kate, thank you for standing beside me through every season, every rehab, and every high and low. I couldn’t have done this without you.
It’s time for the next chapter.
But first, I’m excited to finish this season the only way I know how - with everything I’ve got.
JUSTIN VERLANDER
