Jack Flaherty Signs with Detroit Tigers on Two-Year Deal

Veteran right-handed pitcher Jack Flaherty has agreed to a free-agent contract with the Detroit Tigers, marking a significant move in the MLB offseason. Flaherty announced the news on social media, confirming his new two-year deal worth $35 million, as reported by The Athletic. This contract, which includes an opt-out clause after the 2025 season, is a noteworthy addition for the Tigers as they look to bolster their pitching rotation.

The Deal Details

Flaherty’s contract breaks down as follows: the 2025 season will pay him $25 million, while the 2026 season comes with a $10 million salary. However, there is an interesting stipulation for 2026—if Flaherty makes at least 15 starts during the 2025 season, his salary for 2026 could increase to $20 million. This performance-based incentive gives Flaherty the opportunity to earn more if he stays healthy and effective on the mound.

While the contract details have been confirmed through Flaherty’s announcement, the Detroit Tigers have yet to officially confirm the signing.

Flaherty’s Career and Impact on the Tigers

Flaherty, 28, was once one of the most promising young arms in Major League Baseball, having emerged as a key contributor for the St. Louis Cardinals. Despite facing some injury challenges in recent seasons, including issues with his shoulder and elbow, Flaherty has shown flashes of brilliance and remains a highly regarded talent. His signing represents a potential high-reward move for the Tigers, especially considering his potential when healthy.

Over the past few seasons, Flaherty has battled inconsistency, but he still carries the pedigree of a top-tier starter. In 2023, he split his time between the Cardinals and the Baltimore Orioles, and while his ERA was higher than his career average, he managed to stay competitive in the American League East after being traded mid-season. His experience and ability to eat innings could provide significant value to a Tigers team that has been in the midst of a rebuilding phase.

The Tigers’ Rotation

Flaherty’s addition to the Tigers’ starting rotation is seen as an important step in their ongoing rebuilding efforts. The team has been focused on developing young talent and building a more competitive roster, and adding a veteran presence like Flaherty could provide leadership and stability to a relatively unproven pitching staff.

With the Tigers looking to improve upon their recent performances, Flaherty’s experience, particularly in high-leverage games, could serve as a key asset. His ability to stay healthy and produce at a high level will be crucial to Detroit’s aspirations of returning to playoff contention.

What’s Next for Flaherty?

As Flaherty joins the Tigers, the key to his success will lie in his health and consistency on the mound. The opt-out clause after 2025 gives him a potential pathway to free agency if he performs at a high level, making this a pivotal season for both him and the Tigers. If he can stay healthy and prove that he’s still capable of being a frontline starter, there could be more lucrative opportunities awaiting him at the end of the deal.

Flaherty’s signing also opens up the possibility for a stronger Tigers rotation, with the hope that he can return to the form that made him one of the most promising pitchers in the game. Whether or not Flaherty hits his performance incentives, the deal is an intriguing one for Detroit as they look to solidify their pitching depth and build a more competitive team over the next few years.

The Detroit Tigers’ two-year, $35 million deal with Jack Flaherty is a notable move for both the pitcher and the team. With the opt-out clause and performance incentives built into the contract, both sides stand to benefit if Flaherty can stay healthy and regain his form as a top-tier starting pitcher. For the Tigers, this is a calculated risk that could pay off in the short term, providing a veteran presence in the rotation as they continue their rebuilding efforts. Flaherty’s next few seasons in Detroit will be pivotal in determining the success of this signing for both him and the team.