Overview
- Alex Rodriguez asked questions that misstated Justin Verlander’s background during Fox’s pre–Home Run Derby broadcast, and Verlander immediately interrupted to say Rodriguez had the wrong notes.
- The clip of the exchange, first shown during Monday’s coverage at Citizens Bank Park, circulated widely on social media and drew quick coverage from sports outlets.
- Fact checks from multiple outlets confirmed Verlander was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2004 draft and has never been designated for assignment in his long big‑league career.
- The moment arrived after Verlander’s retirement announcement earlier this week and during an injury‑limited 2026 season in which he has made one start and spent time on the injured list.
- Broadcasters and fans criticized the slip, but commentators also praised Verlander’s calm response; he is expected to be honored at All‑Star events but will not play.