Although this is the 21st century, superstition is still a huge part of the game for many athletes. And the New York Mets’ ace Justin Verlander is someone who also falls in the same category. Despite having won almost everything that a pitcher can dream of winning in the big league, Verlander was once very superstitious. And that too for a Taco Bell beverage.

In a recent episode of Mets’d Up Podcast, the latest addition to the Mets rotation talked about his superstition and what incident led to him putting a stop to his superstition.

What was the ‘taco bell’ superstition that Justin Verlander graciously followed?

Up until MLB’s 2014 season, Justin Verlander had created his superstition that eating taco bell would eventually help in having him play better in the ballpark. In January 2014, Verlander had a core muscle surgery done. Because of this, he did not have a great season. Which then later made him realize he needed to lose that superstition.

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“I think what happened was the core surgery that led to me having a not-great season. But what that not-great season allowed me to do was to get rid of the superstitions that I didn’t want to keep anymore,” said Verlander. 

The former pitcher has signed a two-year deal with the New York Mets for $86.7 million. Which includes a $35 million vesting option for 2025. The pitcher is now looking forward to having a great time in New York without his ‘taco-bell’ superstition.

When talking about the Mets’ rotation, with Verlander, Scherzer, and Diaz, the Buck Showalter-led team has probably the strongest rotation on paper. Only time will tell whether the Mets will be able to utilize their expansive yet experienced rotation during the 2023 MLB season.

What did the pitcher’s superstitious meal consist of?

Up until 2014, it was a ritual for Verlander to have a full meal of taco bell before starting any game. On his menu, the taco bell would contain three crunchy taco supremes with absolutely no tomatoes. In addition to this, there would also be a cheesy gordita crunch and a Mexican pizza (also with no tomatoes). 

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Do you agree with Verlander on putting a stop to his little ritual? Do you also follow any traditions or rituals before doing something special? Tell us your stories in the comments below.