The Orioles have once again been linked to Jack Flaherty at the trade deadline
As fans know, the Orioles are actively seeking pitching help as the trade deadline approaches. They’ve been connected to various pitchers, including Tigers’ ace Tarik Skubal and veteran Rich Hill.
As the deadline nears, it’s increasingly likely that the Tigers will keep Skubal, but he’s not their only trade asset. The Tigers have several valuable players and could be a good match for the Orioles.
The player the Tigers are most likely to trade is right-hander Jack Flaherty. The Orioles acquired Flaherty from the Cardinals at the 2023 deadline, trading Cesar Prieto and Drew Rom to St. Louis in exchange for him.
Flaherty struggled in Baltimore, posting a 6.75 ERA in 7 starts. He allowed a run on 2 hits in 2 innings during his only postseason appearance with the Orioles and left the team on a low note in the offseason.
Flaherty signed a one-year deal with the Tigers this past winter and has performed well enough to attract trade interest. He’s returned to his 2019 form, currently holding a 2.95 ERA with 133 strikeouts in 106.2 innings with Detroit.
Orioles fans lack confidence in Tigers’ starter Jack Flaherty
Despite Flaherty’s previous struggles in Baltimore, it seems Mike Elias is contemplating a reunion. The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal and Katie Woo reported that the Orioles are considering bringing Flaherty back for the 2024 stretch run.
Flaherty makes sense for the Orioles, who often sign and trade for pitchers on one-year deals. There’s hesitancy about trading significant prospects for players like Skubal or Chicago’s Garrett Crochet.
Flaherty will be a free agent after the 2024 season, so the Orioles won’t have a long-term commitment. If he performs well, it’s a big win for Elias and the team; if not, there’s little downside.
However, Orioles fans still remember Flaherty’s poor performance in 2023, overshadowing his improved 2024 stats. Despite his better performance this year, fans are hesitant about reacquiring him.
Flaherty would likely welcome the chance to redeem himself in Baltimore. If he pitches well, fans might urge Elias to sign him this winter. For now, there’s skepticism about his return, which is understandable despite Flaherty seeming like a good fit for the team.