When the New York Mets signed Justin Verlander in free agency, many expected him to continue his top form for the new team. Notably, 2022 was a memorable year for Verlander, winning the Cy Young Award and the World Series. But he got injured during Spring Training and has struggled since coming back. Most recently, the veteran ace was reminded of his success from last year while receiving a priceless memento from his former team the Houston Astros.
Notably, Verlander was crucial to the Houston Astros’ success last year. But 2023 has been a challenging year for him overall. Hopefully, receiving this $15,117 memento will help jog his competitive spirit and help him on the right track.
New York Mets ace Justin Verlander receives his 2022 World Series Championship ring
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Justin Verlander left the Astros shortly after winning his second World Series with the team. This prevented him from receiving his championship ring along with his former teammates. Most recently, during the Mets’ series opener against the Houston-based team, Verlander received his ring. It was a rare, joyous moment for the Mets’ ace in a difficult season thus far. MLB on FOX shared a video on Instagram highlighting the moment. In the post, they said, “Justin Verlander returns to Houston tonight and receives his 2022 World Series ring.”
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Astros skipper Dusty Baker handed the $15,117 worth ring to his former ace before the game. The Mets dominated the Astros in an easy 11-1 victory as they won the series opener.
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Verlander will pitch in one of the two remaining games and look for a good game. The righty hurler has seen a dip in form compared to last year. It will be interesting to see how he performs against his former team as he aims to escape the slump. Have you noticed that Verlander hasn’t been performing at his best this year?
Verlander has looked far from his best this year
Following a 2022 Cy Young-winning season, Justin Verlander has struggled this year. The Mets’ star signing has been giving up too many runs in his outings, making it tough to win games. His shoulder injury in Spring Training seems to have profoundly impacted his throws. The Mets have looked far from the Championship contender they were advertised as. Furthermore, Verlander has not yet lived up to his $86 million contract. Fans and experts will have their fingers crossed as the 40-year-old aims to return in the season. But only time will tell what his future holds.
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