SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Justin Verlander showcased his skills on the mound as he made his spring training debut for the San Francisco Giants on Monday. Verlander, who recently turned 42, exhibited his trademark pitching form by striking out one batter and conceding a solo home run over two innings.
The veteran pitcher, whose debut comes shortly after celebrating his birthday, experienced a minor setback when Colorado’s Michael Toglia sent a two-out homer over the fence in the opening inning. However, Verlander quickly regained his focus, issuing a walk to the next batter before efficiently retiring the following four hitters. During the second inning, he skillfully induced flyballs from all three of the Rockies’ batters.
With 262 career victories, Verlander boasts the highest number of wins among currently active pitchers. As he embarks on his 20th season in the major leagues, this year marks his first with the Giants after enduring a challenging 2024 season plagued by injuries while with Houston. Verlander has inked a $15 million, one-year deal with San Francisco.
Last season, Verlander was hampered by shoulder inflammation and neck discomfort, which limited his appearances to just 17 starts. He concluded the year with a 5-6 record and a 5.48 ERA, the worst single-season ERA of his career, starkly contrasting with his impressive career ERA of 3.30.
