What happened: Justin Verlander lines up for a final start Saturday to close his career. He proposes five rules centered on restoring workload and standing for starting pitchers.
Why it matters: Starting pitchers have shouldered lighter workloads as teams lean harder on bullpens. Verlander's exit removes one of the last full-workload-era arms, putting rotation construction back in focus entering the offseason.
By the numbers: 21 seasons; eighth on all-time strikeout list, four ahead of Scherzer entering the finale.
What to watch: Watch whether pitchers, clubs and the league pick up any of the five suggestions during the offseason.