Justin Verlander continues to prove his effectiveness on the mound. Approaching 43, the right-hander had a strong 2025 season with the San Francisco Giants, posting a 3.85 ERA over 29 starts. Teams interested in signing Verlander would likely see him as a veteran presence to fill the last spot in their starting rotation, where his experience and skill could have a significant impact.
Here are three potential MLB free agents who could be a great fit if Verlander decides to leave San Francisco.
The Miami Marlins had a surprisingly competitive season last year with a 79-83 record, boosted by promising players like Kyle Stowers and Agustin Ramirez. However, the team could benefit from adding some seasoned leadership, which Verlander could provide. Miami’s rotation faced challenges after trading Edward Cabrera and Ryan Weathers, and placing Cal Quantrill on waivers. Their rotation ranked 26th in MLB with a 4.84 ERA last year.
Verlander began the season with a rough patch, holding a 4.99 ERA as of mid-July, but then improved significantly by pitching 72.2 innings across 13 starts with a 2.60 ERA. Similarly, Marlins’ ace Sandy Alcantara, despite injuries and a tough start, posted a 3.13 ERA over 77.2 innings in the latter half of the season. Verlander could mentor younger pitchers like Euri Perez and Max Meyer while offering guidance to Alcantara. Yet, while Miami showed promise, Verlander might prefer joining a team with stronger playoff prospects.
The San Diego Padres could also be keen on acquiring Verlander. With Dylan Cease off to the Blue Jays on a long contract, Nestor Cortez sidelined by injury, and Yu Darvish potentially retiring, the Padres’ rotation struggled last year. Adding a reliable, veteran starter who can pitch 25 or more games on a short-term deal would be a smart move.
Their rotation was average in 2025, placing 16th in ERA and tied for 14th in WHIP. Moving forward, Michael King could become a star if healthy, and Nick Pivetta had a breakout year, while Randy Vasquez and Mason Miller show promise in the rotation. Still, securing a proven veteran like Verlander for 2026 would strengthen pitching depth.
Verlander’s arsenal primarily consists of his four-seamer, complemented by sliders, curveballs, and changeups. Even late in the season, he demonstrated endurance by pitching seven innings across two September starts. With 37 career postseason starts, Verlander could fill an important role for the Padres or other teams targeting a deep playoff run.
Philadelphia Phillies would also be a logical landing spot for Verlander, who would bring much-needed stability to their pitching staff. The Phillies lost their key starter Ranger Suarez to Boston on a five-year deal, and Zack Wheeler’s season ended early due to health issues, while Aaron Nola had a challenging season. Adding Verlander would shore up a rotation that features left-handers Christopher Sanchez and Jesus Luzardo, and would complement a strong lineup led by Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber, and Trey Turner.
Verlander’s signing could shift Taijuan Walker to the bullpen full-time, as Walker had already spent part of last season as a reliever. Vernlander’s expected affordability, possibly around a one-year, $10 million contract, makes him an appealing option for a Phillies team eager to advance beyond the early rounds of the playoffs.
While the Phillies have fallen short in the National League Division Series recently, their core talent positions them well for a pennant run. Bringing Verlander aboard could be the pivotal move to overcome past postseason hurdles and build a more resilient pitching staff.
Fan Take: Justin Verlander’s potential moves this offseason are crucial for baseball fans because his veteran presence can immediately impact teams looking to contend. His experience and leadership not only bolster rotations but also set an important standard for younger pitchers across the league, enhancing the overall competitive balance of the sport.
