On May 24, 2024, at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum in California, Houston Astros pitcher Justin Verlander reached a remarkable milestone by recording his 3,500th career strikeout. This achievement places him among an elite group of Major League Baseball pitchers while highlighting his continued resilience despite setbacks. At 42 years old, Verlander remains a formidable presence on the mound, throwing fastballs reaching 98 miles per hour, demonstrating that his pitching talent endures even as many players retire.
Verlander currently ranks tenth on the all-time MLB strikeout list, joining nine other legendary pitchers in this exclusive club: Nolan Ryan, Randy Johnson, Roger Clemens, Steve Carlton, Bert Blyleven, Tom Seaver, Don Sutton, Gaylord Perry, and Walter Johnson. His milestone was not only a personal triumph but also a testament to his persistent dedication to the sport, particularly after overcoming a significant nerve injury last year that often requires lengthy recovery periods.
Verlander Discusses His Future and Ongoing Efforts to Maintain Performance
Following his achievement, Verlander reflected on his physical condition and plans beyond the 2025 season, expressing both hope and realism about continuing his career. He noted improvement in his pitching after intensive rehabilitation, signaling a positive trajectory, though acknowledging the unpredictable nature of professional baseball.
As I’ve been on the mound, things have started to get better and better. To me, that’s a good sign with all the work I put in after my nerve injury last year, which notoriously takes a long time. The ball’s rolling in the right direction, and I would like to continue pitching. You never know. It’s a fickle game, too, but I think the stuff is still there,
—Justin Verlander
Verlander’s recent outings have shown flashes of excellence, particularly over his last three games where he maintained a stellar 0.60 earned run average and struck out 14 batters in 15 innings. However, consistency remains a challenge, and he candidly expressed his desire to improve his velocity and effectiveness.
I’ve got to try a lot harder to throw harder.
—Justin Verlander
Washington Nationals manager Bob Melvin also praised Verlander’s commitment and attention to detail, highlighting how his competitive spirit influences his teammates and how his continuous efforts have paid off.
That’s big boy stuff. Justin has brought so much to the team. He’s all in on everything. He’s so curious. In between starts, he’s always looking for something else. He scouts everybody very hard. You understand why he’s gotten to the point he is right now.
—Bob Melvin, Giants Manager
Nationals Overshadow Verlander’s Milestone with Dominant Victory
Despite Verlander’s historic moment, the Houston Astros’ celebration was muted as the Washington Nationals secured an 8–0 win over the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park. The Nationals’ offense erupted, led by a revitalized MacKenzie Gore, who pitched six shutout innings with ten strikeouts. Gore’s strong performance prevented the Giants from mounting any offense, while the bullpen maintained control of the game.
Washington hitters contributed significantly, with James Wood delivering two two-run doubles, CJ Abrams hitting a two-run home run, and both Josh Bell and Paul DeJong securing multiple hits. The Giants struggled to capitalize on scoring opportunities, producing only three hits with runners in scoring position.
After the game, Verlander expressed his frustration with the team’s performance and result.
The results have been frustrating.
—Justin Verlander
Bob Melvin echoed this sentiment, describing the game as one of the most disappointing for their season.
Unfortunately, that probably is as disappointing a game as we’ve had all year… I’m frustrated [about] that.
—Bob Melvin
The Significance of Verlander’s Achievement and What Lies Ahead
Justin Verlander’s entry into the 3,500 strikeouts club cements his legacy among baseball’s greatest pitchers, a remarkable feat given his age and recent health challenges. His fastball velocity and resilience reflect a veteran athlete whose passion for the game persists despite the uncertainties he faces. While the Nationals’ win underscored the highly competitive nature of MLB, Verlander’s milestone highlights the continuing impact he has within the league.
Looking ahead, Verlander’s comments suggest he aims to extend his career, contingent on his health and performance consistency. His recent improvements and determination hint at the possibility that he could add further accomplishments before retirement, even as the physical demands of pitching weigh heavily on him.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Verlander navigates the remainder of the season and approaches the next chapters of his storied career in Major League Baseball.