When former Houston Astros ace Justin Verlander stepped off the mound after 4 2/3 innings against the Los Angeles Angels last September, he didn't realize the significance of the moment.

HOUSTON — He captured championships and Cy Young Awards while authoring a career renaissance few of his counterparts can comprehend, but Justin ... have been. Verlander and Astros owner Jim ...

Justin Verlander reportedly drew interest from several suitors over the offseason, but the Astros, his former team, were the only club known to have spoken with the three-time Cy Young winner ...