Justin Verlander revealed on Wednesday that this season marks the end of his baseball career. His return to the Detroit Tigers did not unfold as anticipated. Due to injury, he surrendered five earned runs over three and two-thirds innings. This performance is deemed disappointing, especially after Sports Illustrated Swimsuit had prepared a special bikini welcome for his home start in April.
DETROIT, MI – JUNE 21: Detroit Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander (35) with his wife, Kate Upton, before the Fathers’ Day game between Chicago White Sox and Detroit Tigers on June 21, 2026 at Comerica Park in Detroit, MI (Photo by Allan Dranberg/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) (Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Verlander missed that anticipated start and hasn’t played since his season debut in Arizona in March. His retirement announcement coincided with his selection to the Major League Baseball All-Star Game as a ‘Legend Pick’, marking his 10th appearance.
The announcement prompted a retrospective on Verlander’s Hall of Fame-worthy career. He earned notable accolades, including the 2006 AL Rookie of the Year and 2011 MVP titles. His collection of awards features three Cy Young Awards, two World Series rings, and three no-hitters.
LOS ANGELES, CA – JULY 19: Justin Verlander of the Houston Astros and wife Kate Upton pose for a photo with their daughter during the All-Star Red Carpet Show at L.A. Live on Tuesday, July 19, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Daniel Shirey/MLB Photos via Getty Images) (MLB Photos via Getty Images)
Verlander ranks eighth on the all-time strikeout list, with potential to move to seventh by surpassing Don Sutton with 21 more strikeouts.
The internet has rightly acknowledged the significant support from his wife, Kate Upton. She is celebrated on her own merits, particularly as a four-time SI Swimsuit cover model. Verlander has credited her unwavering support throughout his career’s peaks and valleys.
His baseball journey concludes, albeit not as he wished. However, the internet also ensures recognition of Upton’s influential presence throughout Verlander’s achievements.
Sean Joseph contributes to OutKick.
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