Justin Verlander Set for Emotional Tigers Homecoming After Nine-Year Absence

Justin Verlander is poised to take the mound at Comerica Park on Sunday, marking his first start at home for the Detroit Tigers since 2017. The right-hander is scheduled to face the Chicago White Sox, reigniting memories for fans who watched him rise to stardom in Detroit nearly a decade ago.

Verlander, one of the most accomplished pitchers of his generation, became synonymous with the Tigers during his initial 13-season tenure with the team. From his debut in 2005 through his departure via trade in 2017, Verlander earned multiple All-Star selections, won the 2011 AL MVP and Cy Young awards, and helped lead the Tigers to two World Series appearances. His last home start for Detroit came in the summer of 2017 before he was traded to the Houston Astros in a move that reshaped both franchises.

Since leaving Detroit, Verlander has only added to his legacy, securing two more Cy Young Awards and a pair of World Series championships with the Astros. Now, nearly nine years after his last home outing in a Tigers uniform, his return is expected to be an emotional moment for both the pitcher and the Detroit fan base.

• Verlander’s last start at Comerica Park as a Tiger was in 2017
• He is expected to start against the White Sox on Sunday
• Helped Detroit to four consecutive AL Central titles (2011-2014)
• Ranks among Tigers’ all-time leaders in strikeouts, wins, and innings pitched

Verlander’s comeback to Comerica Park comes at a time when the Tigers are seeking to blend their storied past with a new generation of talent. As a veteran presence, Verlander’s return is anticipated to inspire both his teammates and the Detroit faithful, many of whom still regard him as the face of the franchise’s most recent era of success.

With Sunday’s scheduled start, all eyes will be on how Verlander performs in front of a home crowd that once cheered his every pitch. For many fans, the game represents more than just a regular-season matchup—it is a celebration of Verlander’s career and his enduring connection to Detroit. The Tigers have not confirmed any special ceremonies, but the atmosphere at Comerica Park is expected to be charged with nostalgia and anticipation.