Justin Verlander stands as one of baseball’s most enduring and celebrated pitchers. With a career spanning over two decades, Verlander has collected Cy Young Awards, World Series rings, and a reputation as a true workhorse. But while his achievements on the mound are well-documented, the story of his near-move to the Chicago Cubs adds another fascinating chapter to his legacy.

The Rise of Justin Verlander

Since debuting in the majors, Justin Verlander quickly made his mark. Over the years, he racked up milestones, including over 3,400 strikeouts and three no-hitters. His time with the Detroit Tigers saw him secure a Rookie of the Year title and a Cy Young Award, establishing him as a cornerstone of modern pitching.

What sets Verlander apart is his consistent dominance. Even in his 40s, he throws with remarkable velocity and precision. His unwavering passion for baseball sets an example for aspiring pitchers everywhere.

The Missed Cub Connection

Perhaps one of the most intriguing parts of Justin Verlander’s story is what did not happen. In 2017, the Cubs had the chance to acquire the veteran ace. Verlander was eager to join the contending club and even pushed to wear the blue pinstripes. Yet, due to contract concerns, the Cubs chose a different path, trading top prospects for Jose Quintana instead. As a result, Verlander landed with the Houston Astros, where he added more accolades to his name.

To learn more about what made this a missed opportunity, read Justin Verlander could have — should have? — been a Cub. It was a giant miss for the North Siders (Chicago Sun-Times). The article dives deep into Verlander’s personal thoughts, the Cubs’ hesitation, and how the decision shaped MLB history.

Lasting Impact and Giants’ New Era

Today, Verlander pitches for the San Francisco Giants, still chasing milestones and delighting fans. Whenever he returns to Wrigley Field, Chicago baseball enthusiasts get a bittersweet reminder of what could have been. Each outing showcases his competitive drive and technical mastery.

If you’re interested in tonight’s Giants vs. Cubs matchups or want to track Verlander’s latest starts, find details and lineups on How to watch San Francisco Giants vs. Chicago Cubs - McCovey Chronicles. For an analytical approach to wagering on his performances, check out the Giants vs Cubs prediction, picks & odds for tonight’s MLB game.

Conclusion

Justin Verlander’s legacy is cemented as one of baseball’s best pitchers. Whether dominating with the Tigers, adding hardware with the Astros, or leading with the Giants, he continues to make history. Cubs fans may always wonder about the ace they let slip away, but fans all over baseball can still appreciate his greatness. Follow his journey for more iconic moments, and witness a living legend each time he takes the mound.