Giants' Justin Verlander Free Agent Contract After Retirement Decision
Justin Verlander did not want his baseball career to end in 2025. Late in the season with the San Francisco Giants, he made it clear he had no plans to retire.
2025 Season Performance and Contract Details
Verlander, a free agent now, had a slow start to the 2025 season but improved significantly by the end. The Giants paid him $15 million for 2025. ESPN's Kiley McDaniel projects Verlander might earn around $13 million for a one-year contract in 2026.
"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 writes. "I assume he'll get a little less this year, though he could also get the same contract again."
Career Outlook and Team Fit
Verlander will turn 43 on February 20. Despite being a future Hall of Famer, his ability to maintain pitching effectiveness is uncertain. Keeping him would make sense for the Giants as they lack depth in their rotation and are a team still contending but not an elite contender.
There is also consideration for Verlander possibly returning to his original team, the Detroit Tigers.
Additional Context
- Verlander had a contract worth $15 million in 2025 with the Giants.
- Projected 2026 contract could be around $13 million for one year.
- Age and future performance remain key factors in his career decisions.
Author's Summary
Verlander’s decision to continue pitching beyond 2025 reflects his value both as a veteran presence and a contributing player, though his future contracts and team fit remain uncertain.