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Justin Verlander Announces Retirement after All-Star Game Selection

Jul 8, 2026 | 1:20 PM

Photo: David Rodriguez-Munoz / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

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DETROIT, MICH. ~ After MLB commissioner Rob Manfred added to the Detroit Tigers 2026 All-Star Game representation Wednesday as he used his “Legend Pick” on starting pitcher Justin Verlander, the three-time Cy Young winner announced his retirement will come at the end of the season on social media.

The 43-year-old made his name in Detroit, winning the 2011 American League Most Valuable Player award along with helping take the Tigers to the 2012 World Series. Verlander has only pitched in one game for Detroit this year after suffering a left hamstring strain and it is unclear if he will return to the mound after a failed attempt in June.

Since the potential first ballot Hall of Famer has been injured since April, he will not participate in the game, but will be honored during the festivities. This will be Verlander’s 10th All-Star game selection and seventh time representing Detroit in the mid summer classic. Verlander is the second Tigers player to be chosen as a “Legend Pick” by Manfred, as Miguel Cabrera received the honor in 2022.

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