What started as a co-starring gig for a video game commercial has now blossomed into a full-fledged relationship for Detroit Tigers ace Justin Verlander and model Kate Upton.
The couple was spotted on New Year's at the Ritz-Carlton on St. Thomas, essentially confirming their relationship, even though they aren't willing to say so. The New York Post reported that Verlander, 29, and Upton, 20, were seen going on walks around the grounds and by the pool.
“He keeps a conservative distance," a source told the Post. "But still you can tell they are dating."
Rumors of a relationship started over the summer, when Upton was spotted in Verlander's box at a Tigers game. A day earlier they were seen together at a bar in Detroit.
Neither Upton nor Verlander has commented on the relationship. In fact, the closest person from either side to comment may have been Verlander's grandfather, Richard Verlander Sr.
"I heard he has been on dates with a Sports Illustrated girl," Verlander Sr. told Celebuzz in October. "I saw a photo. She's beautiful. They make a good-looking pair because he's a good-looking man, too."
US Weekly termed the Upton-Verlander hook-up as "one of the worst-kept secrets of 2012.".
