HOUSTON, TX (WTKR)- Justin Verlander wasn't a free agent for long.
The former Monarch signed a one year deal to remain with the Houston Astros, according to FOX Sports. The deal is worth $25 million and includes a player option for a second year. Verlander turned down Houston's $18.4 million qualifying offer earlier on Wednesday, according to the team, but reports of the new agreement surfaced shortly thereafter.
The two-time Cy Young Award winner missed the entire 2021 season while recovering from Tommy John surgery, and operating he underwent in September of 2020 during the coronavirus-shortened campaign.
Earlier this month, Verlander held a showcase for about 20 teams in California and reportedly looked healthy.
The right-handed pitcher was traded to the Astros in 2017 and has thrived with Houston since, going 43-15 with a 2.45 ERA and 640 strikeouts in 74 starts. He is one of just two active pitchers to have recorded at least 3,000 career strikeouts.
