I find the Justin Verlander "value" bandwagon to be somewhat disingenuous based on the perception of him in the past.
While it's true, Verlander has taken a step forward this season, his "value" to the Tigers has been considerable for quite some time. He was underrated. Consider:
From 2006 through 2010, Verlander compiled an 83-50 record. The Tigers overall during that same time period were 424-387.
Simply put, the Tigers were 37 games above .500 overall. Yet, they were just four games above .500 in decisions not involving Verlander.
He's been a terrific pitcher a long time. Among the best. He just hasn't really gotten credit for it until this year.