- Justin Verlander, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, signed a one-year, $13 million deal to return to the Detroit Tigers for the 2026 season sports.yahoo.com+1.
- The contract includes $11 million deferred payments starting in 2030 and a $2 million base salary for 2026, reflecting strategic financial planning sports.yahoo.com+1.
- Verlander's return is a "full-circle moment" for the franchise, as he previously played 13 years for the Tigers, achieving 183 wins and a 3.49 ERA reuters.com+1.
- His signing is expected to bolster the pitching staff, offer leadership and mentorship to younger players, and impact team dynamics positively sports.yahoo.com+2.
- The move resonates deeply with fans, rekindling memories of Verlander's past success and emotional connection to Detroit espn.com+1.
- The Tigers aim for a more competitive season, with Verlander's experience viewed as crucial for improving their league standing freep.com+1.