San Francisco Giants have made a significant move by finalizing a $15 million, one-year contract with veteran pitcher Justin Verlander. Verlander, a three-time AL Cy Young Award winner, will be a valuable addition to the Giants' rotation, which is spearheaded by All-Star right-hander Logan Webb.
Last season, Verlander had a mixed performance with the Houston Astros, going 5-6 with a 5.48 ERA in 17 starts. He faced challenges with injuries, starting the season on the injured list due to shoulder inflammation and later dealing with neck discomfort that led to another stint on the IL. Despite these setbacks, the 41-year-old right-hander expressed his desire to continue pitching and competing.
With an impressive career record of 262-147 and a 3.30 ERA in 526 major league starts, Verlander brings a wealth of experience to the Giants. He holds the active lead in wins, strikeouts, innings pitched, starts, and complete games. Additionally, his postseason track record includes a 17-12 record with a 3.58 ERA in 38 appearances.
Verlander spent the majority of his career with the Detroit Tigers, where he achieved his first Cy Young Award and AL MVP honors in 2011. Following a trade to the Houston Astros in 2017, he played a pivotal role in the team's World Series victory that same year, earning two more Cy Young Awards along the way.
Notably, Verlander had a brief stint with the New York Mets before being traded back to Houston. His return to the Astros was short-lived as he now embarks on a new chapter with the Giants, marking a fresh start for the seasoned pitcher.
In a corresponding move, San Francisco designated catcher Blake Sabol for assignment to make room for Verlander on the roster. This signing comes amidst other significant offseason moves by the Giants, including the acquisition of shortstop Willy Adames on a lucrative $182 million, seven-year deal in December.
With Verlander's arrival, the Giants aim to bolster their pitching staff and build a competitive team for the upcoming season, under the leadership of newly appointed president of baseball operations, Buster Posey.
