Justin Verlander’s switch to the New York Mets in 2022 may have caused waves, but the pitcher is not done yet. With the trade deadline fast approaching, the 2022 Cy Young Award winner has been in talks to switch back to familiar territory. And while some details remain in flux, Verlander could soon leave the Citi Field. The question that remains is where to?

Verlander is a bona fide Major League Baseball legend. With the Cy Young winner now having been in the majors for 18 years, his body of work is unquestionable. But the question that remains is where he will pitch in 2023. And with a former franchise emerging as a top contender, could Verlander be headed for familiar territory?

Is Justin Verlander Headed Back to Familiar Pastures?

Few would have seen the Verlander’s switch coming so soon. However, per the latest update from Héctor Gómez, the $86 million Mets player could prepare for a switch back to Minute Maid Park to don the Houston Astros threads as soon as the trade deadline.

Reported Gomez, “Verlander’s relationship with #Astros owner Jim Crane could be in a key factor in Verlander deciding on the Astros over the Dodgers.”

While the Los Angeles Dodgers are emerging as competition to signing the ace, the deciding factor is Verlander’s relationship with Jim Crane, the owner of the Astros. 

Read More: Is Opportunist $86M Justin Verlander Actually Returning to Houston as Astros Close In on AL West?

Despite the Dodgers offering better talent from their farm system as a part of the transfer, Verlander could opt for familiarity.

Could the Houston Astros Be Set to Reacquire Justin Verlander?

Justin Verlander certainly seems set for a move away from Citi Field. But the ace’s return in the Minute Maid Park could see some hurdles. Despite the Verlander being allotted one of the Major League’s most lucrative deals last off season, that very contract could be what is now holding him back.

Verlander is reportedly on a 2-year, bumper $86 million contract with a player option for the third year in 2025. The hold-up for the Astros is only regarding the portion of the contract that the acquiring Astros will put up.

But how do you see Deadline day panning out? Will Verlander remain a part of the bullpen rotation with the Mets? Or do you think a move away is imminent?

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