Breaking: Justin Verlander Signs Free Agent Deal, Moves to National League

In somewhat of a surprise move, Justin Verlander has selected to sign a free agent deal with a team that is not a true contender for 2025, as he inks a one-year contract with the San Francisco Giants.

BREAKING: Right-hander Justin Verlander and the San Francisco Giants are in agreement on a one-year contract, pending physical, sources tell ESPN. The future Hall of Famer, who turns 42 next month, will spend his 20th season with the Giants.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) January 7, 2025

Verlander will be entering his age-42 season, but already has two World Series titles and three Cy Young awards on his resume. He'll go to a pitching-friendly ballpark for what could be his swan song in the majors (though we'd never count him out).

The 19-year veteran had the worst season of his career in 2024, posting a 5.48 ERA and a 1.38 WHIP. He struck out just 74 batters in 90 innings in his 17 starts. He began the season late after dealing with right shoulder inflammation, then he missed more than two months later in the year with neck discomfort.

With the Giants, he'll join Logan Webb and Robbie Ray for a potentially strong rotation, along with Jordan Hicks and Kyle Harrison.

For his career, Verlander is a nine-time All-Star with a 3.30 ERA and a 262-147 record in 526 starts.