BREAKING – Justin Verlander Plans to Pitch Through 2026 After Dominant Second Half
SAN FRANCISCO — Justin Verlander has made a career of defying age and expectations, and he’s not ready to stop. The 41-year-old three-time Cy Young Award winner confirmed this week that he intends to keep pitching through the 2026 season after a brilliant second-half performance that reminded everyone why he remains one of baseball’s elite arms.
Verlander’s announcement came after he delivered yet another vintage outing, striking out eight and allowing just one run over seven innings in a Giants win. It was the latest gem in a post–All-Star break surge that has lowered his ERA and reignited talk of another Cy Young-caliber campaign.
“I still love the game,” Verlander said in a clubhouse interview. “Physically, I feel great, and mentally I still have the fire. As long as I can compete at the level I expect of myself, I’m going to keep going.”
Since the break, Verlander has posted an ERA under 2.50 with a WHIP near 1.00, silencing any doubts about his durability. His mid-90s fastball continues to miss bats, and his signature curveball remains a nightmare for hitters even as he approaches two decades in the majors.
“He’s an absolute marvel,” Giants manager Bob Melvin said. “The work he puts in, the professionalism—he’s the ultimate competitor. When he says he’s going to keep pitching, believe him.”
Verlander’s commitment through 2026 would put him on the mound at age 43, a rare feat in modern baseball. Only a handful of pitchers—such as Nolan Ryan and Randy Johnson—have remained top-level performers into their mid-40s.
Teammates say Verlander’s preparation sets him apart. “The way he takes care of his body is incredible,” said catcher Patrick Bailey. “He’s meticulous about his routine. You can see why he’s been so good for so long.”
Verlander’s decision also provides stability for a Giants rotation that has blended veteran experience with emerging young talent. His presence gives San Francisco a proven ace to mentor the next wave of pitchers while anchoring a team with postseason aspirations.
“I love being part of this clubhouse,” Verlander said. “There’s a great mix of young energy and veteran leadership. We believe we can win now and in the future, and I want to be part of that.”
His Hall of Fame résumé is already secure: over 250 career wins, more than 3,300 strikeouts, a World Series title, and a reputation as one of the fiercest competitors of his era. Yet Verlander remains motivated by the pursuit of another championship.
“I don’t think about milestones,” he said. “It’s about winning. That’s why we play.”
Fans across the league are already buzzing about what two more seasons of Verlander could mean. If he maintains his current pace, he has a chance to climb even higher on the all-time strikeout and wins lists, further cementing his place among the greats.
For now, the veteran right-hander is focused on finishing the current season strong and helping the Giants push for the postseason. But his message was clear: the end of his career is nowhere in sight.
“Baseball has given me so much,” Verlander said with a smile. “I’m not done yet. Not even close.”
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