The San Francisco Giants’ 2024 season highlighted a critical need for bolstering their starting rotation, a need that surprisingly found a solution in a 42-year-old veteran. Following a disheartening string of years, marked by consecutive seasons finishing below .500 – the third in as many years – the Giants’ pitching staff struggled, posting a 4.22 ERA in 2024, placing them 18th in Major League Baseball. Recognizing this deficiency, President of Baseball Operations Buster Posey proactively sought reinforcements, ultimately securing a one-year, $15 million deal with former colleague and future Hall of Famer Justin Verlander. The move initially drew skepticism, considering Verlander’s recent performance, which included a 5.48 ERA across 90 1/3 innings in 17 starts, coupled with a lack of strikeouts since 2022, signaling a noticeable decline due to his age. However, Verlander’s early starts in 2025 were undeniably challenging, resulting in a 6.75 ERA across 18 2/3 innings with 17 strikeouts. It appeared the investment was quickly becoming a significant concern, with the expectation shifting to utilizing Verlander primarily for his ability to generate ticket sales rather than consistent performance.
Yet, a remarkable turnaround ensued. Over the subsequent three starts, the veteran delivered three quality starts, showcasing a dramatically improved performance. His ERA dipped to a remarkable 1.96 across 18 1/3 innings, punctuated by 15 strikeouts. While critics could point to the opposing teams – the Los Angeles Angels and Colorado Rockies – known for their struggles, Verlander’s recent success was further validated by his performance against the Texas Rangers, a legitimate World Series contender boasting a powerful lineup. It’s important to acknowledge that the era of Verlander contending for a Cy Young Award may be behind him. Nevertheless, if he continues to produce quality starts, it will significantly improve the Giants’ chances of exceeding a .500 record for the first time since 2021. This strategic acquisition demonstrates Posey’s willingness to identify and capitalize on experienced talent, potentially revitalizing the Giants’ pitching rotation and paving the way for a more competitive season. The focus now rests on Verlander’s continued ability to deliver consistent, high-level performances, solidifying his role as a key contributor to the team’s success. His resurgence represents a pivotal moment for the Giants, offering a renewed sense of optimism and a tangible path toward achieving their goals.
The impact of this veteran signing underlines the importance of adaptability and recognizing a player’s potential, even in the later stages of his career. Ultimately, Verlander's performance will be crucial in shaping the Giants’ trajectory this season, providing a valuable asset as they strive for a return to prominence.
