Tigers could reunite with fan favorite to bolster rotation, per insider

The Detroit Tigers have been an interesting team this season. They were sellers at the trade deadline but are now just 1 1/2 games back of the Minnesota Twins for the final American League Wild Card spot.

The future looks bright in the Motor City, and this coming offseason should be an important one for the Tigers.

Mark Feinsand of MLB.com proposed the idea of Detroit reuniting with a fan favorite in free agency.

"I could see General Manager Scott Harris try to sign Justin Verlander to a homecoming, finish your career back in Detroit kind of deal," Feinsand said.

Verlander is a free agent at the end of the 2024 season. He has a vesting option for 2025, but he's unlikely to hit that option. Still, the idea of him returning to Detroit is an interesting one.

The veteran right-hander was a Rookie of the Year, an MVP, and a Cy Young in Detroit. He also helped guide the Tigers to the World Series in 2006 and 2012.

The Tigers have a young roster, and bringing Verlander back would give them a solid veteran presence. He also could profile as the top-of-the-rotation arm they need if he can remain healthy.

2024 has not been kind to Verlander. He's 4-6 in 15 starts with a 5.20 ERA and has made a few trips to the injured list. But it will be interesting to see if the Tigers decide to pursue a reunion.

More MLB: Tigers named a 'top landing spot' for $210 million two-time All-Star