Jack Flaherty is returning to the Detroit Tigers after signing a new two-year contract worth $35 million. This deal, reported by ESPN’s Jeff Passan, also has an opt-out option after the first season.
Flaherty, a talented right-handed pitcher, began last season with the Tigers but was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers at the trade deadline. During his time with the Dodgers, he played a vital role in their successful run, contributing significantly to their World Series victory. Notably, he started in the first game of the World Series against the New York Yankees, helping secure a 6-3 win, and later pitched in Game 5, which clinched the championship for the Dodgers.
Last season witnessed a notable improvement in Flaherty’s performance. The 29-year-old managed to lower his earned run average (ERA) to 3.17, a sharp decline from the previous year’s 4.99. He ended the regular season with a 7-5 record, completing 18 starts with the Tigers. His time with the Tigers marked a significant turnaround as the team made it to the playoffs for the first time in a decade after he left. While with the Dodgers, Flaherty continued showcasing his skills, achieving a 6-2 record in 10 regular-season starts. However, despite winning both of his World Series starts, Flaherty recorded a 7.36 ERA during five playoff starts for the Dodgers.
This offseason marked Flaherty’s second trip into free agency, leading him to sign a one-year deal with Detroit worth $14 million last December. The pitcher originally rose to prominence with the St. Louis Cardinals, who selected him in the first round of the 2014 MLB Draft. Flaherty made his MLB debut in 2017 and spent his early career with the Cardinals. In recent years, he has played for the Orioles, Tigers, and Dodgers, showcasing his adaptability and skill in various team environments.
Now back with the Tigers, Flaherty is expected to complement the current pitching rotation, joining forces with Tarik Skubal, the reigning American League Cy Young award winner. His experience and recent performance improvements will be crucial as the Tigers aim to reach the postseason for a second consecutive year.
Flaherty’s signing reflects the Tigers’ commitment to building a competitive team, focusing on strong pitching to support their postseason aspirations. With his right arm and competitive spirit, he is set to be an essential part of the team’s strategy moving forward. The Tigers hope that Flaherty’s return will bolster their chances in a tough league and enable them to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.
