When the Dodgers traded two prospects for Tigers’ beginning pitcher Jack Flaherty, the franchise knew he was a brief addition. Flaherty, who will flip 29 in October, will probably be a free agent on the finish of the season.
In 2023, Flaherty was a free agent. He signed a one-year, $14 million contract with the Tigers within the offseason. Along with his efficiency this season in Detroit and Los Angeles, Flaherty is anticipated to build up a multi-year contract over the upcoming offseason. ESPN’s Jeff Passan mentioned that Flaherty has entered the $25-million-per-year territory for a multi-year contract.
This season, the right-hander has logged a 3.00 ERA. That is the bottom of his profession since 2019, when he performed for the Cardinals and ranked sixth in strikeouts (231) amongst Nationwide League pitchers.
One concern about Flaherty is his medical historical past. Shortly earlier than the Tigers traded him, Flaherty missed a begin in July because of a decrease again damage that required two injections in three weeks. He by no means went on the injured checklist. The damage reportedly garnered sufficient concern to make groups just like the Yankees resolve towards buying and selling for Flaherty on the deadline.
Flaherty’s ERA elevated from 2.95 with the Tigers to three.22 with the Dodgers, a dip in efficiency that some would possibly attribute to a lingering again damage.
Though his ERA has risen barely, Flaherty stays undefeated as a Dodger, with a 3-0 document throughout 4 begins. He has recorded 29 strikeouts whereas strolling solely 5 batters and hitting one, highlighting Flaherty’s potential to manage his pitches.
Moreover, Flaherty boasts a five-pitch repertoire. He depends closely on his four-seam fastball (43.5 p.c of pitches) which averages 93.5 MPH. Flaherty has began to include his slider (30.8 p.c) and knuckle curve (20.3 p.c) extra this season. Though it’s uncommon, he does combine in a changeup (3 p.c) and sinker (2.4 p.c) sometimes.
Flaherty was considered as the highest pitching commerce goal on the deadline. Until he can strike an extension with the Dodgers, he’ll turn into one of many prime pitching free brokers, which implies a number of groups are going to court docket the California native. The Dodgers would possibly contemplate re-signing Flaherty a precedence, however it should include a big price ticket.
Photograph Credit score: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports activities
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