*This is a prediction*
Signing Justin Verlander would be a savvy move for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2026. His 2025 performance proves he’s still capable of meaningful contributions, and his experience, competitiveness, and leadership would fit perfectly with Los Angeles’ championship aspirations.
In a league where elite pitching still defines contenders, Verlander could be the final piece that pushes the Dodgers back to the World Series.
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Justin Verlander Signs the Los Angeles Dodgers
As the 2026 MLB offseason takes shape, one of the most intriguing pitching questions facing contenders is where longtime ace Justin Verlander will land next.
At 42 years old, Verlander remains one of the most accomplished pitchers of his generation, and despite age and innings on his arm, he produced a strong bounce-back campaign in 2025 that makes him a compelling target for a team like the Los Angeles Dodgers.
In 2025 with the San Francisco Giants, Verlander logged 29 starts and 152.0 innings, finishing with a 3.85 ERA, 1.36 WHIP, and 137 strikeouts.
Though his 4-11 record doesn’t reflect dominance, his peripherals and late-season performance suggest he still has elite ability, including a 2.99 ERA in the second half and an impressive stretch where he posted a 1.96 ERA over his final seven starts.
Verlander’s veteran presence and continued effectiveness make him an ideal fit for a Dodgers team that has once again spent aggressively on pitching and payroll.
Los Angeles set a new MLB record for competitive balance tax payments in 2025 thanks to its high-profile roster, and they’ll enter 2026 with another massive payroll as they try to sustain their perennial contention.
Here’s why the Dodgers should pursue Verlander:
Verlander’s résumé speaks for itself. A three-time Cy Young Award winner, former AL MVP, and two-time World Series champion, he brings postseason experience that few free agents can match. His leadership would be invaluable in a Dodgers clubhouse that already emphasizes veteran talent and high expectations.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has shown a willingness to utilize veteran starters in key roles, and Verlander fits that mold. Whether as a front-end starter or a high-leverage rotation piece, his ability to keep the Dodgers competitive deep into October is a major asset.
While Verlander’s age is a concern, his ability to navigate a full workload — 152 innings in 2025 — shouldn’t be underestimated. His WHIP and ERA demonstrate that he’s still capable of limiting baserunners and earning quality starts.
For a Dodgers staff that often pushes for depth and reliability, adding Verlander provides insurance behind arms like Gavin Stone, Julio UrÃas, and Dustin May.
The Dodgers’ rotation for 2026 is expected to feature a mix of youth and veterans, including players like Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tyler Glasnow, and Dustin May. Adding Verlander would not only bolster the starting staff but also provide unrivaled mentorship for younger arms still establishing themselves.
Signing Justin Verlander would be a savvy move for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2026. His 2025 performance proves he’s still capable of meaningful contributions, and his experience, competitiveness, and leadership would fit perfectly with Los Angeles’ championship aspirations.
In a league where elite pitching still defines contenders, Verlander could be the final piece that pushes the Dodgers back to the World Series.