Dodgers All-Star Free Agent Jack Flaherty Drawing Interest from Multiple Teams, Including Baltimore Orioles
Jack Flaherty, a former All-Star and free agent, joined the Los Angeles Dodgers at the 2024 trade deadline, fulfilling his childhood dream of playing for his favorite team. Although he contributed to the Dodgers’ eighth World Series title, it’s increasingly likely he won’t return in 2025 due to their crowded pitching rotation. Flaherty, a native of Burbank, is now attracting interest from five MLB teams.
The Baltimore Orioles are among the teams interested in Flaherty. After losing 2021 Cy Young winner Corbin Burnes to the Arizona Diamondbacks, who signed him to a six-year, $210 million deal, the Orioles have a potential opening for Flaherty. This could lead to a reunion, as Flaherty was part of the Orioles’ roster in 2023.
Ken Rosenthal recently noted that Flaherty is a fallback option for the Orioles if they fail to re-sign Burnes. With Burnes now officially gone, Baltimore might turn to Flaherty, despite his previous struggles with the team, where he posted a 6.75 ERA and -0.6 WAR in nine appearances. Given the current free-agent pitching market, a 2025 reunion remains a viable option.
With Burnes joining the Diamondbacks, Max Fried signing with the New York Yankees, and Blake Snell heading to the Dodgers, Flaherty stands out as a strong option for the Orioles. He could step into the ace role left vacant by Burnes and seek redemption with Baltimore fans.
In addition to the Orioles, the San Francisco Giants, Toronto Blue Jays, Detroit Tigers, and Chicago Cubs have also shown interest in Flaherty. The Giants, who also pursued Burnes, may see Flaherty as a valuable addition. Ryan Finklestein of Just Baseball predicts Flaherty could land in San Francisco.
The Detroit Tigers, where Flaherty previously pitched with success, are another potential destination. In 18 starts with the Tigers, he posted a 2.95 ERA and a WAR of 2.4. Pairing him with Tigers ace Tarik Skubal could bolster their rotation as they look to build on their surprise postseason run in 2024. Adding Flaherty could further enhance their chances for continued success.
