MLB star Justin Verlander has revealed that he will retire from baseball at the end of the 2026 season.
The 43-year-old, who is married to model Kate Upton, shared the news with his fans on Wednesday afternoon after posting an emotional statement on social media.
In the lengthy message, the Detroit Tigers right-hander revealed that he will attend next week’s All-Star Game – where he will be honored – but will not pitch on the day.
Taking to X, Verlander said: ‘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.’
MLB star Justin Verlander has revealed that he will retire at the end of the 2026 season
The 43-year-old, who is married to model and actress Kate Upton, shared the news with his fans on Wednesday afternoon, posting a lengthy statement on social media
‘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.’
Verlander will leave MLB following an illustrious career that has seen him become a 10-time All-Star, three-time Cy Young Award winner and two-time World Series champion.
Over his 21 seasons, the right-hander has amassed a remarkable 266-159 win-loss record
Upton has been a regularly fixture at his games, supporting him at ballparks across the country
Over his 21 major league seasons, the right-hander has amassed a remarkable 266-159 win-loss record alongside a stellar 3.33 ERA across 556 career starts.
Verlander has also solidified his place among the game’s greatest power pitchers, recording 3,554 total strikeouts over 3,571.1 innings of work.
In recent months, Verlander has struggled with injuries after suffering a hamstring strain shortly after a lengthy recovery from a hip injury.
‘I’ve always said I want to play until the wheels fall off. Maybe there are falling off,’ he said following the injuries.
