Justin Verlander can become a free agent after the World Series, but he's trying to be present as the Houston Astros try to win a championship.

Verlander's contract comes with a $25 million player option for 2023, granted by virtue of him surpassing 130 innings this season.

"I'm just kind of along for the ride right now," said Verlander, who will start Game 1 against the Philadelphia Phillies. "It's been a wonderful year for me, my family at home and in the sport. I'm just trying to be present and part of it. I'm not really trying to focus too much on what's ahead."