Sports Illustrated Swimsuit legend Kate Upton was in Philadelphia this Tuesday to support her husband, Justin Verlander, at the 2026 MLB All-Star Game.
Despite appearing in just one game this season, Verlander was added to the American League's roster for the All-Star Game. The three-time Cy Young winner was MLB commissioner Rob Manfred's "Legend Pick." After making a 10th All-Star roster, Verlander announced that he'll be retiring from baseball once this season is over.
"I want to thank the Commissioner for the incredible honor of being selected to the All-Star game. The opportunity to attend once again is something I’ll cherish, and it will be an incredibly special moment for me and my family," Verlander said. "This season has challenged me in ways I haven’t experienced before, both physically and mentally. I’ve always believed that as long as I could compete at the level I expect of myself, I’d keep playing. I never wanted to retire because of a milestone, a number, or a date on the calendar. I wanted the game to tell me when it was time."
Verlander's statement also included a sweet message for his wife.
"To my family, especially my wife Kate, thank you for standing beside me through every season, every rehab, and every high and low. I couldn’t have done this without you. It’s time for the next chapter."
© David Rodriguez-Munoz / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images.
Although he didn't pitch in the All-Star Game on Tuesday night, Verlander and Upton went viral on the red carpet. Fans had nothing but good things to say about Upton's appearance.
"Having seen Kate Upton in person at a Thunder game I can honestly say Justin Verlander is a HOF’er for putting a ring on her because she was gorgeous," one fan wrote on X.
"Kate Upton is the Babe Ruth of MLB WAG," a second fan commented.
"She has aged impeccably," another fan declared.
© Brad Penner-Imagn Images.
How did Verlander and Upton meet?
Verlander and Upton met while filming a commercial for Major League Baseball 2K12. By the spring of 2016, they officially announced their engagement.
In 2018, Verlander said Upton saved him when he was dealing with depression.
"I don't like to talk to people about being hurt. As athletes, you're not supposed to … But [Upton] was someone I could talk to. I mean, basically a therapist. Somebody I could trust with … worries about my career. Worries about, 'Can I make it?' Worries about what I'm going through to get back," Verlander said. "Who knows, if I'm even here if it wasn't for her?"
Verlander and Upton currently share two children together, a daughter named Genevieve and a son named Bellamy.
