Verlander: 'Premature' to think Game 5 start could be last with Astros

Houston Astros ace Justin Verlander will take the ball for Thursday's Game 5 of the World Series against the Philadelphia Phillies, a start that could be the last of Verlander's five-year run in Houston.

Verlander, 39, holds a $25-million option for 2023 and could be one of the offseason's most intriguing free agents if he tests the market.

Despite the uncertainty, Verlander said he's trying to remain focused on the task at hand.

"It's premature," Verlander said Wednesday, according to the Houston Chronicle's Chandler Rome.

"I try not to, really. Really and truly, it's been a hell of a ride no matter what happens, whether I stay or don't. I've really enjoyed my time with this group of guys and the city and getting to know the city. And it's really been a blessing and a wonderful time in my career."

Verlander will look to snap his struggles in the World Series when he takes the mound for Game 5. He owns an 0-6 record with a 6.07 ERA across eight Fall Classic starts.

"I'm trying to be present," Verlander said. "We talked a lot about how this year I've just tried to be more in the moment and be present and enjoy the ride, and yeah, that will happen whenever it happens. We'll see."

The Astros acquired Verlander from the Detroit Tigers in 2017. The hurler helped the club to a World Series victory that same season and added a second career Cy Young in 2019.

Verlander threw just six innings across the 2020 and 2021 campaigns after undergoing Tommy John surgery. He returned this season to post an 18-4 record with a career-best 1.75 ERA and is a strong favorite to take home another Cy Young.