Giants' Justin Verlander Free Agent Contract Details 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. Now, as a free agent, he must decide his next steps on the field.
Verlander struggled early in the 2025 season but improved significantly by the end. The Giants paid him $15 million for that year. ESPN analyst Kiley McDaniel forecasts that Verlander's 2026 contract will be around $13 million for one year.
"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."
Verlander will turn 43 on February 20. While he is a future Hall of Famer, his ability to continue shutting down hitters remains uncertain. The Giants could benefit from retaining him, considering their rotation lacks depth and he fits well on a team aiming to compete, though not as a dominant contender.
There is also speculation about Verlander possibly returning to his original team, the Detroit Tigers.
Contract and Career Outlook
- 2025 salary with Giants: $15 million
- Projected 2026 contract: $13 million (one year)
- Age: Turning 43 in February 2026
- Potential to remain effective but with declining longevity
- Fit for teams with competitive hopes but not championship favorites
Author's summary: Justin Verlander enters free agency after a solid 2025 season with the Giants, facing decisions about continuing his career amid aging and varying team needs.
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