Justin Verlander’s announcement that the 2026 season will be his last sparked an emotional response throughout the Detroit Tigers clubhouse, but perhaps none carried more significance than the words of fellow ace Tarik Skubal.
Before Verlander addressed the media Wednesday to explain his decision to retire, Skubal quietly took a seat in the back of the room. The two time reigning American League Cy Young Award winner wasn’t there to speak. He was there to listen.
For Skubal, it was a chance to support a teammate, honor a Tigers legend, and learn from one of the greatest pitchers the game has ever seen.
Skubal Wanted to Support a Tigers Legend
Skubal said there was never any question about being present for Verlander’s announcement.
“I think it is just important to respect the game,” Skubal said. “He’s been one of the game’s best pitchers. Ever. And I know that decision is tough for him and you kind of want to support him and let him know that you have his back.”
The two pitchers have developed a close relationship since Verlander returned to Detroit before the 2026 season. While injuries have limited Verlander to just one start, his influence inside the clubhouse has remained substantial.
Learning From One of Baseball’s Greatest
Skubal explained that Verlander’s value extends well beyond what happens every fifth day on the mound.
“There is a ton of knowledge to take away from how he speaks, what he says and how he goes about his business,” Skubal said. “Just being there was all of those things kind of put together.”
That mentorship has become part of Skubal’s daily routine.
The two are often seen talking baseball around the clubhouse, including friendly battles over the chessboard that have become a regular part of their relationship.
Competition Doesn’t Stop at the Chessboard
Even away from the field, Skubal has enjoyed seeing Verlander’s competitive fire.
“It’s always fun competing against him in that,” Skubal said. “You can kind of see him start to lock in on that stuff. It has been fun to see that. He has been great for everybody in the clubhouse, including me.”
Verlander’s experience has made him a valuable resource for one of baseball’s youngest pitching staffs, even while spending much of the season recovering from injuries.
A Shared Appreciation for Old School Pitching
Skubal also reflected on one of the qualities that made Verlander one of the most durable starters of his generation.
In an era where organizations often prioritize shorter outings and workload management, Verlander built his Hall of Fame career by consistently pitching deep into games.
That mindset continues to resonate with Detroit’s current ace.
“As a starting pitcher, you take pride in eating innings and throwing a ton,” Skubal said. “… I think innings are so valuable and organizations don’t value it as much. They probably want quality over quantity. The old school in me, I want quantity.”
It’s a philosophy Verlander embodied throughout his career and one that Skubal hopes to carry forward.
The Bottom Line
Justin Verlander’s legacy is already secure, but his impact on the next generation of Tigers pitchers is still being written.
For Tarik Skubal, having the opportunity to spend a season alongside one of baseball’s all time greats has been about much more than sharing a clubhouse.
It has been an education.
And judging by Skubal’s heartfelt comments, the lessons Verlander leaves behind may last just as long as the records and awards that define his remarkable career.
