Report: Justin Verlander, Mets Agree to $86M Contract After Jacob deGrom's Exit

Veteran righthander Justin Verlander has agreed to a two-year, $86million contract with the New York Mets, according to the New York Post's Jon Heyman.

Heyman and SNY's Andy Martino reported the deal includes a vesting option for a third year.

The news comes after the 39-year-old declined his $25 million player option for 2023 with the Houston Astros in November. He was expected to do so in order to pursue a longer and more lucrative contract.

However, his decision to leave Houston is somewhat of a surprise as the team made a significant push to retain his services. Astros owner Jim Crane said after the team won the 2022 World Series that the franchise had a "good relationship" with the player.

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