Verlander’s Future: Houston or San Francisco?
Justin Verlander is coming off a successful season with the San Francisco Giants, pitching to a 3.85 ERA across 29 starts. Despite his strong performance, the Giants struggled to provide enough run support, and Verlander ended the year with just four wins. As he moves toward free agency for his age-43 season in 2026, speculation surrounds his next team and whether he'll prioritize comfort and proximity to home over contract length or salary.
Houston—A Familiar Possibility
According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, Houston could be Verlander’s next destination. The Astros conduct their spring training near Jupiter, Florida, which is close to Verlander’s home. This location would allow him to spend more time with his wife, Kate Upton, and their two children, an appealing factor since his son was born during the 2025 season.
Nightengale notes: "The Houston Astros have spring training near Verlander's home in Jupiter, Florida. That point has been made by several Giants beat writers as well."
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San Francisco’s Standing and Needs
The Giants maintain spring training in Scottsdale, Arizona, which means Verlander would spend an extended period away from his family if he returns for another year. The Giants are in need of starting pitching for the 2026 season, leaving the door open for his possible return. Verlander provided over 150 innings for the Giants, making him a valuable asset for an otherwise thin rotation.
Verlander on His Career and Future Goals
"I would hope somebody would offer me a contract now," Verlander told USA Today Sports, reflecting on his season and expressing his intention to continue pitching next year. He further commented on his goals: "I want to give us the best chance to win this, the best chance to sneak into the playoffs."
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Comfort or Contract?
At this stage, Verlander’s contract terms may be less important than lifestyle and competitive opportunity. He is just 35 wins away from the 300-win milestone, an important personal career goal. A move to Houston would not only mark his third stint with the Astros—following trades in 2017 and again before the 2023 deadline—but also allow him to compete while being closer to family.
Financial Factors
Any agreement for 2026 is expected to be short and team-friendly due to Verlander’s age and recent performance. The market projects a potential one-year deal worth around $13-15 million, depending on health and late-season form.
[3][6]"The only version of Verlander that makes sense for the Astros is the one they saw at the end of 2025, when he ripped off a late-season run with a 1.96 ERA over his final seven starts."
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In Summary
- Verlander aims to keep pitching and reach 300 wins.
- The Astros offer location and comfort, while the Giants present playing opportunity.
- Financial terms for 2026 are expected to be modest and short-term due to age and health considerations.
Author's Summary
In 2026, Verlander may choose between returning to Houston for proximity to family and comfort, or staying with the Giants, who value his veteran leadership and innings, with financials favoring a one-year contract.