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Justin Verlander to Retire After 2026 Season, Named an All‑Star ‘Legend Pick’

His decision ends the playing career of a future Hall‑of‑Famer whose injury‑shortened 2026 will be marked by a ceremonial tribute at next week’s All‑Star Game.

Overview

  • Verlander announced Wednesday that the 2026 season will be his last after MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred selected him as a “Legend Pick” for the American League All‑Star roster.
  • He has not pitched since his lone start on March 30 and was placed on the injured list with left‑hip inflammation before suffering a left hamstring strain while rehabbing.
  • MLB said Verlander will attend and be honored at the All‑Star Game in Philadelphia but will not play or pitch in the Midsummer Classic.
  • Verlander returned to Detroit on a reported one‑year, $13 million deal this offseason and one outlet reported the contract includes about $11 million in deferred payments beginning in 2030.
  • A three‑time Cy Young winner with 266 career victories and 3,554 strikeouts, Verlander is widely seen as a first‑ballot Hall‑of‑Famer who says he will try to finish the season even though a late‑season mound return is uncertain.