Justin Verlander might not have had the perfect season in 2024. Despite his career with the Detroit Tigers, the Houston Astros is where he won two rings. Verlander has been his best with the Astros, but they dropped him out of the playoff roster last season.
The All-Star pitcher battled several injuries in 2024, and his pitching was a disaster. With his incredible career coming to an end, the 41-year-old wants to give it one last shot. Verlander is keen on returning for at least another year before he retires. Or, if given the opportunity, he might continue to pitch until he is 43.
With many younger pitchers in the market, Justin Verlander’s chances of getting a long-term deal at this age are pretty slim. Pitching itself has been a huge question, as not many teams have shown interest in acquiring him. The Astros have not shown any signs of signing Verlander, and he might not wait for the opportunity to return to Houston.
There is no time for Verlander to wait, and he would jump at the opportunity that comes his way, even if that means leaving the Astros. The latest rumors suggest that an AL West team could offer Verlander a one-year deal.
Baltimore Orioles Could Pursue Justin Verlander
The Baltimore Orioles are expected to be in the Verlander market. MLB insider Jon Morosi believes that multiple teams are behind the pitcher, but the Orioles could be the perfect fit. Baltimore recently signed Charlie Morton to a one-year deal. Adding Verlander is possible, especially since they need to fill their starting rotation.
Justin Verlander Drawing Interest From "Multiple Teams" https://t.co/inuGXgHCyZ pic.twitter.com/bQrXm3hugi
— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) January 4, 2025
The Orioles have missed out on Corbin Burnes. Replacing Burnes will be challenging, but they have a great chance to bring Verlander into the team. It’s clear that the O’s can only offer him a one-year deal.
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In fact, every team that throws a contract at Justin Verlander will offer him a year or two. The good news is that Verlander is in great shape after a well-rested season. The veteran is waiting and ready to pitch in 2025. Apart from Verlander, Alex Bregman is the top free-agent candidate with several teams behind him.
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