Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander delivers to Philadelphia Phillies Nick Castellanos in the first inning during Game 5 of the World Series at Citizens Bank Park on Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022, in Philadelphia.LAS VEGAS — Astros ace Justin Verlander exercised the opt-out in his contract Thursday and entered free agency, a foregone conclusion for the presumptive American League Cy Young winner who will seek a substantial pay raise on the open market.
The Astros had exclusive negotiating rights with Verlander until 4 p.m. Thursday, after which he and all other free agents were allowed to negotiate and sign with any other club. Owner Jim Crane said Wednesday the Astros “are going to try to do our best to keep him.” Scherzer signed the deal prior to his age-37 season. Verlander turns 40 in February, so it stands to reason his next contract might not match Scherzer’s in length or value. Verlander has long maintained a desire to pitch until he’s 45, though, and displayed no signs of decline in 2022.
Finally won a world series game after 10 tries. Good for him.