San Francisco Giants pitcher Justin Verlander has expressed a resolute commitment to his baseball career, asserting that he aims to continue pitching until he reaches the age of 45. Verlander stated, 'I wouldn't be back if I didn't think I could be great,' emphasizing his determination to return to form following a challenging previous season.

Having recently signed a one-year, $15 million contract with the Giants, the former MVP and Rookie of the Year is eager to make a significant impact in San Francisco as he approaches his 42nd birthday in early February. Verlander has commenced his offseason throwing regimen earlier than usual and has already recorded speeds of up to 93 miles per hour, a promising indicator for both his health and performance as he looks to replicate his 2022 season, where he achieved a career-best ERA of 1.75.

Despite setbacks due to shoulder and back issues that limited him to 90.1 innings in the previous season, Verlander remains optimistic. He hopes to don the No. 35 jersey, a number he has worn throughout his career, pending approval from Giants legend Brandon Crawford, who wore the number during his successful tenure with the team. As Verlander embarks on this new chapter, he is motivated by the opportunity to rebound from a tough year with the Houston Astros, which he described as leaving a 'sour taste' in his mouth.