If you are a fan of baseball, you probably know who Justin Verlander is. He is one of the best pitchers in the game, a nine-time All-Star, a two-time World Series champion, and a three-time Cy Young Award winner. He has played for the Detroit Tigers, the Houston Astros, and currently for the New York Mets.
But do you know who Ben Verlander is? He is Justin’s younger brother, and he also has a connection to baseball. He is a former player, a current sports analyst, and a podcast host. He is also an avid supporter of his brother’s career.
In this article, we will explore the relationship between Ben and Justin Verlander, how they both got into baseball, what they are doing now, and what their future plans are.
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How Ben and Justin Verlander Got Into Baseball
Ben and Justin Verlander were born in Manakin-Sabot, Virginia, to Richard and Kathy Verlander. Their father was a communications executive, and their mother was a speech pathologist. They both encouraged their sons to pursue their passions and supported them throughout their baseball journeys.
Justin was born on February 20, 1983, and he showed an early interest in baseball. He started playing at the age of five, and he idolized Nolan Ryan, a Hall of Fame pitcher. He attended Goochland High School, where he excelled as a pitcher and a hitter. He also played basketball and golf.
Justin was drafted by the Detroit Tigers in the second overall pick of the 2004 MLB draft, after attending Old Dominion University and playing for the Monarchs. He made his major league debut in 2005, and he quickly established himself as one of the best pitchers in the league.
Ben was born on January 31, 1992, and he followed his brother’s footsteps into baseball. He also played at Goochland High School, where he was a star outfielder and pitcher. He also played basketball and football.
Ben attended Old Dominion University as well, where he played for the Monarchs as a right fielder and a relief pitcher. He was drafted by the Detroit Tigers in the 14th round of the 2013 MLB draft, joining his brother’s organization.
What Ben and Justin Verlander Are Doing Now
Justin Verlander has had a remarkable career in baseball, with many achievements and accolades. He has pitched three no-hitters, won two World Series titles (in 2017 with the Astros and in 2022 with the Mets), led the league in strikeouts five times, in earned run average twice, and in wins three times. He has also won the AL MVP award (in 2011), the ALCS MVP award (in 2017), the Babe Ruth Award (in 2017), and the AL Comeback Player of the Year award (in 2022).
Justin is currently playing for the New York Mets, after signing a one-year deal worth $25 million in December 2022. He is still one of the most dominant pitchers in the game at age 40, having posted a 17-6 record with a 2.76 ERA and 221 strikeouts in 2022.
Ben Verlander had a brief career as a player, spending four seasons in the minor leagues with the Tigers’ affiliates. He played as an outfielder and a pitcher, hitting .219 with 13 home runs and 72 RBIs, and pitching to a 4-6 record with a 5.63 ERA and 55 strikeouts.
Ben retired from playing in 2018, but he did not leave baseball behind. He transitioned into media, becoming a sports analyst and a podcast host. He works for Fox Sports as an MLB analyst, appearing on various shows and platforms. He also hosts his own podcast called Flippin’ Bats with Ben Verlander , where he interviews players, celebrities, and fans about baseball.
Ben is very active on social media, especially on Twitter , where he shares his opinions, insights, and humor about baseball. He is also very supportive of his brother’s career, often tweeting about his games and achievements.
What Ben and Justin Verlander’s Future Plans Are
Ben and Justin Verlander are both passionate about baseball, and they both have plans to continue their involvement in the sport.
Justin Verlander has said that he wants to pitch until he is 45 years old , following the example of his idol Nolan Ryan. He has also expressed interest in becoming a coach or a manager after he retires from playing. He has also been involved in various charitable and philanthropic causes, such as supporting veterans, children, and animals.
Ben Verlander has said that he wants to grow the game of baseball and make it more exciting and accessible for fans. He has also said that he wants to write a book about his experiences as a player and a media personality. He has also been involved in various charitable and philanthropic causes, such as supporting cancer research, mental health, and education.
Conclusion
Ben and Justin Verlander are two brothers who share a love for baseball. They both have had different paths and careers in the sport, but they both have achieved success and recognition. They both support each other and their family, and they both have plans to continue their involvement in baseball. They are an example of how baseball can bring people together and inspire them to pursue their dreams.
