Justin Verlander underwent Tommy John surgery on Wednesday.
The estimated recovery time for Verlander is about 12-14 months, which means the earliest he could return to pitch in the Major Leagues is the 2022 season.
The right-hander turns 38 in February. He carries a $33 million salary for 2021, then is eligible for free agency.
Verlander, the reigning AL Cy Young winner, made just one start this season.