Justin Verlander Announces Retirement After Stint with Detroit Tigers

Justin Verlander announced on Wednesday that the current season will be his last in Major League Baseball. His time with the Detroit Tigers in this final season hasn’t met expectations. He has allowed five earned runs over three and two-thirds innings due to injury. Before his expected first home start back in April, Sports Illustrated Swimsuit had even planned a welcoming event, which ultimately went to waste.

Verlander, accompanied by his wife Kate Upton, was last seen prior to the Father’s Day game against the Chicago White Sox on June 21, 2026, at Comerica Park in Detroit, MI. He missed his anticipated start during that time and hasn’t played in a game since his season opener in Arizona this past March. His retirement announcement coincided with his selection for the 10th MLB All-Star Game as a “Legend Pick.”

The game of baseball has indicated that it’s time for him to retire.

As expected, announcements of his retirement and All-Star selection have brought attention to his Hall of Fame-worthy career. Verlander, recognized as the 2006 American League Rookie of the Year and the 2011 MVP, boasts three Cy Young Awards, two World Series titles, and three no-hitters among his numerous achievements.

Verlander, currently eighth on the all-time strikeout list, has a chance to climb to seventh, needing just 21 more strikeouts to surpass Don Sutton. His career has been closely monitored by fans, who often mention the supportive role of his wife, Kate Upton, a renowned four-time SI Swimsuit cover model, in his journey.

Kate Upton has been a significant part of his success.

Through all the peaks and valleys, Upton stood by Verlander, as he acknowledged in his announcement, highlighting her unwavering support.

Justin Verlander’s career will be remembered as one of the most remarkable in baseball, despite not ending as he might have envisioned. His retirement announcement was accompanied by widespread acknowledgment of Upton’s influence in his life and career.