The Detroit Tigers have structured new contracts for Justin Verlander and Framber Valdez to defer $31 million in payments until 2039. Verlander's one-year, $13 million deal includes $11 million deferred, while Valdez's three-year, $115 million agreement defers a $20 million signing bonus. These payment plans spread financial obligations over multiple years.

Verlander, 43, will receive $2 million upfront this season, with the remaining $11 million paid in $1.1 million installments annually from 2030-39. Valdez's contract includes $17.5 million this year and $37.5 million in 2027, plus performance-based escalators. His $20 million signing bonus will be paid in $2 million installments each June 15 from 2030-39.

The deferred payments represent a small fraction of baseball's largest obligation, as the Los Angeles Dodgers owe over $1 billion in deferred compensation to 10 players through 2047. This financing approach allows teams to manage payroll flexibility while securing veteran talent.