Houston Astros ace Justin Verlander pitched like a Cy Young candidate this year.
In 175 innings, he had a stellar 1.75 ERA that led the American League.
He also had a 0.83 WHIP, 185 strikeouts, and 18 wins.
He showed several things in 2022: first, he proved he can dominate at 39 years old; and second, he demonstrated that a pitcher of his age can successfully come back from Tommy John surgery with dedication and hard work.
Before the season, Verlander signed a two-year, $50 million contract with the Astros that paid him $25 million this year and $25 million in 2023.
However, with 130 innings pitched, the 2023 season became a player option.
Verlander’s Future Is Uncertain
What does this mean?
It means that Verlander can elect to become a free agent if he wants.
He can either opt into his 2023 season with the Astros and earn $25, or test free agency and look for another multi-year contract.
The pitcher discussed his future in a press conference ahead of Game 1 of the World Series against the Philadelphia Phillies, scheduled for Friday at 8 p.m. ET.
“@JustinVerlander asked about his future, given his contract is up: ‘I don’t know. I’m just along for the ride right now. It’s been a wonderful year for..I’m just trying to be present and part of it. I’m not really trying to focus too much on what’s ahead,'” insider Mark Berman tweeted.
.@JustinVerlander asked about his future, given his contract is up: “I don’t know. I’m just along for the ride right now. It’s been a wonderful year for..I’m just trying to be present and part of it. I’m not really trying to focus too much on what’s ahead.” pic.twitter.com/r6rXbbH0uz
— Mark Berman (@MarkBermanFox26) October 27, 2022
The most likely scenario has Verlander parlaying his excellent season into a two or three-year deal with the Astros, but he could very well opt into the deal, play next season, and hang up his spikes.
That could be a possibility, too, given his age.
We will have to wait until after the World Series to learn about what’s in store for him.
NEXT: Justin Verlander Brings An Elite Mark Into The World Series