Justin Verlander’s brother reports free agency destination

Justin Verlander’s brother Ben reported that the former MVP and Cy Young winner is signing with…the Houston Astros.

Where there’s smoke, there’s usually fire. Yet, that was not the case with Justin Verlander, as it had been reported that JV wanted to sign with an East Coast team who played their Spring Training games in Florida.

Not so fast my friends.

This doesn’t mean that Verlander wasn’t — at some point — in discussions with the likes of the Yankees, Tigers, Blue Jays, Braves, Red Sox and any number of teams. In the end, Verlander went with familiarity, returning to Houston and letting his own brother report the news.

Justin Verlander contract: How much are Astros paying him?

Verlander declined his qualifying offer from the Astros, forcing the team to up the ante. Surprisingly enough, Houston did, and offered Verlander even more money on a one-year deal plus a player options for 2023.

Noah Syndergaard received $21 million on a one-year deal from the Angels just days ago. Verlander, who is also coming off injury, is seen as more of a sure thing despite overcoming Tommy John surgery.

Justin Verlander injury: Is he ready

Verlander is expected to be ready for the start of the 2022 season, despite his injury status. He pitched in front of MLB scouts just a few weeks ago.