*This content was translated by AI.
Justin Verlander (43, Detroit Tigers), the living legendary "right-handed pitcher" of Major League Baseball (MLB), is finally hanging up his glove. He has decided to put a period on his great journey at his hometown team where his career began.
According to reports by U.S. sports specialty media such as 'The Athletic' on the 9th (Korea time), Verlander officially announced via his social networking service (SNS) that he will end his 21-year MLB career and retire after the 2026 season.
In a statement, Verlander explained that this decision came after much deliberation, saying, "This season has challenged me in ways I have never experienced physically or mentally."
He continued, "I have always believed I would keep playing as long as I can compete at the level I expect. I did not want to retire because of specific records, numbers, or calendar dates. I wanted baseball to tell me it was time to leave. Over the past few months, I realized that right now is that moment. I will pour everything into helping the team for the remainder of this season, but this will be my final season."
With this, Verlander is concluding his playing career after leaving behind a great legacy in MLB history. Dominating the league for 21 seasons, he has secured three Cy Young Awards (2011, 2019, and 2022 seasons), was named the 2011 American League (AL) MVP, and won two World Series rings, having long since reserved his spot in the Hall of Fame.
However, this season with Detroit, Verlander has appeared in just one game without a win, recording a loss with an ERA of 12.27. His final outing was on March 31 against the Arizona Diamondbacks in an away game, where he started and pitched 3⅔ innings, allowing six hits (one home run) and five earned runs.
Coinciding with his retirement announcement came a meaningful honor. Verlander was named to the all-time 10th All-Star roster through special designation as 'Legend Pick' by MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred on this day. He received this recognition as the oldest player and a legend.
Verlander, who began and will end his career with Detroit, is scheduled to say goodbye to fans after appearing at the star-studded MLB All-Star Game on the 15th, concluding his farewell after the final game of the 2026 season.
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*This content was translated by AI.
