Justin Verlander is in the final year of his contract and set to become a free agent for the first time, and he says he is open to a short-term deal in the future.
Verlander has been outspoken about the issues with free agency, noting that not enough teams are making strong efforts to win and upgrade their teams via signings. Due to that and his age, he recognizes a short-term contract may be his only option. He told FanCred’s Jon Heyman that he is willing to accept that.
Justin Verlander is a free agent for 1st time after year and while “I plan to pitch into my mid 40s,” he also said, “I don’t need to sign a 5-year deal.” JV, 35, is OK going shorter and betting on himself, as long as value is right; he’s “cognizant” of potential effect on market.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) March 6, 2019
Verlander also said he is willing to remain with the Astros.
Verlander hasn’t ruled out staying with the Astros, if they show interest. “I haven’t shut the door — good team, good guys,” he said. At this stage, he said that’s as important as anything.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) March 6, 2019
Verlander is entering his third season with Houston since being traded during the 2017 season, a year when the Astros went on to win the World Series. He was one of the best pitchers in MLB last season, and even though he’ll be 37 next year, he should command some big bucks even on a short-term deal as long as he does well again this season.
