Though Jack Flaherty has only recently arrived in Los Angeles, free agency rumors are already swirling around the Dodgers’ newest high-profile addition.
Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher Report made some “way-too-early” predictions this offseason on the major MLB free agents, including Flaherty, who he thinks will sign with the New York Mets.
In the report, which was released on Thursday, August 1, Rymer stated that the newest member of the Los Angeles Dodgers isn’t sure how long they’ll be around. “Jack Flaherty signed a $14 million one-year contract, but his performance this season suggests he might earn more money on the open market. In June, something felt right about Taijuan Walker, Eduardo Rodriguez, and Jameson Taillon, though nine figures might also work.
Rymer believes that a four-year, $68 million contract between the Mets and the 28-year-old Flaherty will be reached. He also mentioned that, during the MLB trade deadline, the Mets were one of many teams interested in Flaherty.
Jack Flaherty’s Condition May Need Attention
The biggest story surrounding Flaherty at the trade deadline, apart from his move from the Detroit Tigers to the Dodgers, was what didn’t happen.
That is, a trade to the New York Yankees, who reportedly had an agreement in place for him, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic. According to Rosenthal, the Yankees withdrew from the trade after looking over his medical records, citing lower back issues as the reason.
Flaherty missed a start in July due to back problems, but he returned to the mound and has since made three starts with a 1.53 ERA after getting two injections in three weeks.
According to Rosenthal, Tigers President of Baseball Operations Scott Harris told reporters in Detroit, “I can’t comment on medical stuff with trades.” “You would need to inquire with the other teams. Jack is in good health. He was going to start for us on Thursday if we didn’t move him.
With 18 starts under his belt this season, Flaherty is 7-5 with a 2.95 ERA and 133 strikeouts in 106.2 innings for the Tigers. This is the greatest season he has had since his second big league season in 2019, when he pitched 196.1 innings and had a 2.75 ERA.
Flaherty Might Be a Good Fit for the Mets
Due to the impending free agents Harrison Bader, Luis Severino, and Jose Quintana, the Mets will be receiving some cash this offseason. Naturally, a portion of that cash will probably be used to keep first base slugger Pete Alonso, who is also set to reach free agency.
However, Steve Cohen was never accused of being economical. The owner of the Mets enjoys splashing cash and acquiring top players, especially for his pitching staff. He might search for a pitcher exactly like Flaherty.
“This winter, when Luis Severino and José Quintana are eligible for free agency, that fit could work even better,” Rymer said. Additionally, Flaherty’s superior K/BB ratio ought to pique their interest. In that aspect, their starters are tied for last place in 2024.
The Mets may pursue soon-to-be free agent Max Fried if they are unable to sign Flaherty. Although his K/BB ratio isn’t as impressive, he has been an All-Star in two of the last three seasons and walks fewer than three batters per nine innings.
However, Rymer projected that Fried would sign a six-year, $170 million contract with the Texas Rangers.
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