“I Don’t See Why I Can’t”: 5 Days Before Turning 40, Justin Verlander Gets Real About His MLB Future

The two times World Series Champion Justin Verlander is undoubtedly one of the best pitchers ever to dominate the baseball mound. Having won his both Fall Classics with the Houston Astros, Verlander wrapped up the 2022 season by winning his third Cy Young Award. After playing the game with the Astros for six years, the former Astros ace decided to go for a change and signed with the New York Mets on a 2-year, $86.7 million contract. 

Notably, Verlander is almost 40, but the New York Mets star is sure enough that he is not going to let his age slow him down. For him, there are still a good few years left in him, and he’s going to give his best. Have a look at what the pitcher has to say about his future in baseball.

Justin Verlander showed no signs of nervousness

Spring Training is set to start on February 25, and the NY Mets have already reported at their facility. Starting pitcher Justin Verlander in a recent interview from the Mets’ spring training facility talked about what his future looks like in the sport. 

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While talking about his age, Verlander said, “You’ve seen some guys in the history of our sport and other sports that were able to carry it well into their 40s, and I don’t see why I can’t. Let’s work harder than I ever have.”

As the pitcher gave the short interview, no amount of nervousness appeared on the athlete’s face. Instead, he looked full of confidence. Verlander knows that he is no different from the players who played immensely well in their 40s. Former baseball player Albert Pujols, who retired after the 2022 season, is an excellent example of such a player. 

How did Verlander play in his last season with the Astros?

Since the pitcher was recovering from a Tommy John surgery, he had missed the entire 2021 season. Therefore, scoring in 2022 had become a major task for him. But he did not let the pressure get to him and gave his best. 

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Verlander wrapped up the 2022 season by giving an 18–4 record, 1.75 ERA, and 185 strikeouts in 175 innings pitched. Because of this, after the regular season ended, the pitcher got awarded the AL Comeback player of the year. Following this, he entered the postseason and led his team to their second World Series.

How do you think Verlander will play in the following years? Let us know in the comments below!