Houston Astros fans disappointed as ace pitcher opts out of contract, becoming a free agent

Justin Verlander has officially opted out of his contract with the Houston Astros. He had another year on his deal with the Astros. The superstar pitcher is leaving $25 million on the table to test the free-agent waters.

Verlander is coming off a dominant year on the mound. He led the league in ERA and WHIP, and will likely win the American League Cy Young Award.

The news of Verlander opting out has disappointed Houston Astros fans. While the team can chase after him in free agency, it is unlikely, given their pitching depth. They had so many quality starting pitchers this past season; they had to move one to the bullpen at the end of the season.

Despite that, fans don't want to see a pitcher of Justin Verlander's caliber go. When he's healthy, he is one of the best arms in the game.

"That's honestly surprising, I thought he'd want to run it back," one fan explained.

"Ouch! No loyalty anymore anywhere!" said another.

Some Houston Astros fans are wondering why Justin Verlander opted out of his contract after the team won the World Series. They don't see the logic in leaving a team that has proven to be the best.

Other fans pointed out that he's likely to get a bigger deal than the $25 million he was guaranteed next season. Some fans pointed out likely destinations for the ace, like the Texas Rangers, or even the possibility of coming back to where his career started, Detroit.

The Houston Astros likely won't re-sign Justin Verlander

World Series - Philadelphia Phillies v Houston Astros - Game 1

Justin Verlander just had one of the best seasons of his career. He looks to have fully recovered from the Tommy John surgery he had in 2020. He's proving to be ageless. He'll attract quite a few teams in the offseason that could easily outbid Houston.

One team that is likely to pursue Verlander aggressively is the New York Mets. They're not afraid to spend big money on big-time players.

The New York Yankees are another team that will likely pursue Justin Verlander. Acquiring Verlander would reunite him with his old Astros teammate, Gerrit Cole.

The Detroit Tigers could make a surprise run at him as well. Verlander started his career with Detroit in 2005. Acquiring him would give Detroit an immediate boost in a conference that's seemed to be up for grabs in seasons past.

Many teams will be chasing Verlander in free agency; it will be interesting to see who lands him.