Giants’ Justin Verlander Contract Details After Retirement Decision
Justin Verlander made it clear near the end of the 2025 season with the San Francisco Giants that he was not planning to retire. Now, as a free agent, he must decide where his career continues.
Performance and Earnings
Verlander’s 2025 season started slowly but improved as it went on. The Giants paid him $15 million for that year. According to ESPN analyst Kiley McDaniel, the veteran pitcher is projected to earn around $13 million on a one-year contract for the 2026 season.
“Verlander signed a one-year, $15 million deal with the Giants last year, and they got what they paid for: He was even a bit better in 2025 than 2024 by some measures,” McDaniel wrote. “I assume he'll get a little less this year, though he could also get the same contract again.”
Future Prospects and Fit
Verlander, who turns 43 on February 20, remains a likely Hall of Famer. However, his age raises questions about how much longer he can effectively get hitters out. Despite this, keeping him might benefit the Giants, whose rotation depth is limited. Verlander seems best suited for teams hoping to compete but not necessarily dominate.
There’s also speculation that a return to the Detroit Tigers, his original team, could be a fitting move to close out his career.
Author’s Summary
At 43, Justin Verlander weighs his next move after a solid 2025 season, likely seeking a one-year deal as his durability and legacy remain under the spotlight.