MLB Contract Grades: Tigers Score Big with Jack Flaherty’s Return
After Jack Flaherty helped his new team win the World Series, the Detroit Tigers have brought him back.
The Tigers have signed Flaherty to a two-year, $35 million deal, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, diving into the dwindling free-agent pool. The agreement guarantees $20 million in 2025, with an opt-out option after that. The contract also promises $10 million for 2026, which could increase to $20 million if Flaherty starts 15 games.
This deal represents excellent value for Detroit, coming off their first playoff appearance in ten years. Flaherty began the 2024 season with the Tigers before being traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers midyear. He went on to help the Dodgers win the World Series, playing a key role in their pitching success during the postseason.
At 29, Flaherty is in the prime of his career and coming off his best season yet. He made 28 starts, threw 162 innings, and posted a 3.17 ERA with 194 strikeouts. Any doubts about his postseason composure are long gone, as he was a crucial part of the Dodgers’ championship run. Now, he’s back with the team he always wanted to play for.
Tigers Secure Bargain with Flaherty’s Return
With several pitchers securing huge contracts this offseason—Blake Snell for $182 million, Corbin Burnes for $210 million, Max Fried for $218 million—it’s surprising that Detroit managed to sign Flaherty at such a reasonable price. Flaherty could leverage a strong season into a bigger deal next year, meaning he might not be a long-term fix. However, with Detroit in playoff contention, adding a potential All-Star to their rotation behind Tarik Skubal is a win.
Flaherty has consistently praised the Tigers organization, showing clear affection for his time there and expressing openness to a longer-term deal if the Tigers are willing to back it up financially.
“They do a really good job there with [Chris] Fetter, Robin Lund, and A.J. [Hinch],” he said in an interview with Foul Territory. “Skubal wins a Cy Young. That dude’s a stud and so much fun to be around. I wanted to stay in Detroit. I loved it there. I thought the combo of me and Skub was incredible.”
While the Tigers could benefit from more offensive consistency, the Flaherty-Skubal one-two punch in the rotation should deliver plenty of wins. Detroit’s rotation is also bolstered by Reese Olson, Alex Cobb, and Jackson Jobe, all of whom are capable of solid performances.
While Detroit isn’t known for aggressive spending, the opportunity to add such a strong asset at a reasonable cost is hard to pass up. This deal could prove beneficial for both sides, with Detroit securing a second ace and Flaherty positioning himself for a more lucrative contract in 2026. The Tigers remain competitive in the AL Central, and time will tell how this deal plays out.