Full Breakdown
Justin Verlander Returns to Detroit Tigers Rotation for First Home Start Since 2017
6/17/2026, 8:43:30 AM
Verlander’s Return to the Rotation
The Detroit Tigers will activate right-hander Justin Verlander from the 60-day injured list on Father’s Day and start him Sunday, June 21, 2026, against the Chicago White Sox at Comerica Park. The 43-year-old, on a one-year, $13 million deal signed in February, makes his first home start for Detroit since Aug. 20, 2017. His only major-league appearance this season was on March 30, when he allowed five runs in 3 2/3 innings to Arizona.
Background
Justin Verlander debuted with Detroit in 2005, spent 13 seasons there, and was traded to the Houston Astros in August 2017. He returned to the Tigers in February 2026 after stints with the Astros, New York Mets and San Francisco Giants. He is a three-time Cy Young Award winner, two-time World Series champion and nine-time All-Star.
Timeline & Performance Highlights
Feb 12 – Rejoined the Tigers in Lakeland. Mar 30 – Only 2026 MLB start, five runs in 3 2/3 innings vs Arizona. Apr 1 – Placed on 60-day IL for left-hip inflammation. Jun 2 – Rehab start for Toledo: five scoreless innings, 64 pitches. Jun 10 – Rehab start vs St. Paul: 5 2/3 innings, four solo HR, 86 pitches. Jun 12 – Four-inning, 66-pitch simulated game at Daikin Park. Jun 21 – Scheduled start vs Chicago. In his last four starts he is 3-0 with a 3.32 ERA; his repertoire includes a 94-mph four-seamer, a changeup with 40 % whiff rate and a 2,600-rpm slider.
Official Statements & Responses
Manager A.J. Hinch said Verlander’s rehab shows steady improvement and that the start will bring energy for pitcher and team. He noted the rotation shift, moving Keider Montero to the bullpen and keeping Troy Melton on the IL. The club called Verlander’s veteran presence a boost to rotation depth.
Why It Matters
Verlander’s return adds a seasoned ace to a rotation with Tarik Skubal, Casey Mize and Troy Melton. As the active leader in wins and strikeouts, he provides a veteran benchmark for younger pitchers. The start also marks a homecoming for a player who began his career in Detroit.
What’s Next
After Sunday’s game, the Tigers will finish the three-game series with the White Sox. Tarik Skubal is slated to start Friday, while Troy Melton’s health will determine the Saturday starter. The team will continue to monitor Verlander’s workload as the season progresses.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It's time to challenge him even more with a game,” — A.J. Hinch, Tigers manager
- “He's responded better and better after these outings,” — A.J. Hinch, Tigers manager
- “I just need to pitch. It’s been a long time. It’s been a hard process but at this point, as close as I am, it’s just time to go pitch.” — Justin Verlander, pitcher
- “The adrenaline he talks about and the energy that comes with this start will be good for him and good for us,” — A.J. Hinch, Tigers manager
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
No conflicts identified.
