The Detroit Tigers signed Starting Pitcher Jack Flaherty to a two-year $35 million contract on Sunday night. Flaherty’s contract reportedly includes an opt-out after the first season and guarantees him $25 million for the upcoming season. Flaherty was dealt by the Detroit Tigers to the Los Angeles Dodgers at the 2024 MLB Trade Deadline. He has returned to the “Motor City” after a few months out West.
Flaherty was a World Series champion with the Dodgers but did not fare well in the postseason. He was 1-2 with an alarming 7.36 ERA. He will look to rebound from a poor playoff run on the heels of one of the best regular seasons of his career. Flaherty finished the regular season 13th in ERA, 15th in strikeouts, and 9th in WHIP. How will Flaherty fit in with a Detroit Tigers team entering 2025 with lofty expectations?
Detroit Tigers Offseason Summary
BREAKING: Right-hander Jack Flaherty and the Detroit Tigers are in agreement on a two-year, $35 million contract that includes an opt-out after the first season, sources tell ESPN.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) February 3, 2025
Detroit is coming off its first playoff berth since 2014. They finished 86-76 to clinch the American League’s third wild card spot. They lost in the ALDS to the Cleveland Guardians after coughing up a 2-1 series lead. The Tigers advanced to the ALDS following two straight road wins against the Houston Astros.
The team did not rest on its laurels following their best season in over a decade. They signed star Relief Pitcher Tommy Kanhle, Starting Pitcher Alex Cobb, and Second Baseman Gleyber Torres. Detroit clearly feels like they have a win-now ballclub and their moves this offseason reflected that philosophy. The Detroit Tigers did not rest on their laurels following a tremendous season.
How Will Flaherty Fit In?
Flaherty joins a starting rotation that was one of the league’s best in 2024. They were fourth in ERA, sixth in opposing batting average, and second in WHIP during the regular season. Detroit’s pitching staff kept it going in the MLB Playoffs, but their offense let them down. In their three losses to the Guardians, the Tigers scored a measly seven runs. Detroit’s starting rotation is led by reigning Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal. Starting Pitchers Reese Olson and Cobb will also be crucial members of the starting rotation in 2025.
Final Thoughts
The Detroit Tigers enter 2025 with high expectations. They are looking to build upon a great 2024 season and bolstered their roster this offseason. Flaherty will look to rebound from a rough postseason run as he reunites with the Tigers.