The Detroit Tigers bolstered their starting pitchers this offseason by acquiring Framber Valdez and Justin Verlander. The arrival of Verlander, a 42-year-old veteran, surprised Tarik Skubal, the team’s current ace, who openly shared his feelings about teaming up with the seasoned pitcher during a media interaction on Thursday.
Speaking to reporters, Skubal expressed his disbelief at seeing Verlander in the Tigers’ locker room, saying he never expected to become teammates with such a legendary player. He also voiced excitement about the opportunity to learn and grow alongside Verlander throughout the 2026 season.
“If you would’ve told me 10 years ago that I’m gonna be lockermates with Justin Verlander, and we’re gonna be in the same rotation, I would’ve called you f****** crazy,”
Skubal said.
“Yeah, it’s pretty cool. I’m getting goosebumps right now. It’s pretty special, and he’s great. He’s gonna be great for our team. He’s gonna be great for me.”
Verlander’s Impressive Career and Role with Detroit
Justin Verlander is preparing to enter his 21st Major League Baseball season, bringing a wealth of experience to the Tigers’ pitching staff. Most recently, he completed a one-year contract with the San Francisco Giants, posting a solid 3.85 ERA, a 1.362 WHIP, and tallying 137 strikeouts. His addition to Detroit’s rotation marks a significant strengthening alongside Skubal, Framber Valdez, Jack Flaherty, and Casey Mize.
Skubal’s Goals as Tigers Look to 2026
At 29 years old, Tarik Skubal is coming off a stellar 2025 season, leading the American League with a 2.21 ERA and a 0.891 WHIP. He also recorded 241 strikeouts and held a winning percentage of 68.4. As he gears up for the new campaign, Skubal is eager to build on his success, motivated by the presence of veterans like Verlander in the clubhouse.
Upcoming Season and Opening Matchup
Detroit’s first action of the 2026 season will begin with spring training on February 21, when the Tigers face the New York Yankees. The early games will provide fans and analysts a first look at how the revamped pitching rotation performs together this year.
#Tigers ace Tarik Skubal would have called you F-ing crazy if you said he'd be lockermates with Justin Verlander pic.twitter.com/vlrF71JxSK
— FOX 2 Sports (@FOX2Sports) February 12, 2026
