The Major League Baseball trade deadline has come and gone, but not without its share of dramatic twists and turns. Among the most intriguing moves was the Los Angeles Dodgers' acquisition of right-hander Jack Flaherty, a deal that unfolded after an earlier attempt by the New York Yankees fell through.
Yankees' Deal Falls Apart Over Health Concerns
Initially, Flaherty appeared set to don the pinstripes. The Yankees had reached a preliminary agreement with the Detroit Tigers to bring the pitcher to New York. However, after a review of his medical records, the Yankees decided to back out of the deal. Flaherty's medical history is storied, including shoulder trouble from the 2021 and 2022 seasons, and a lower back issue that caused him to miss a start in early July, requiring two injections.
The caution exhibited by the Yankees is understandable, particularly in light of their previous experience with Frankie Montas. Acquired two years ago, Montas had missed starts due to shoulder inflammation and subsequently underwent surgery the next spring, which led to him missing nearly the entire season.
Dodgers Step In
With the Yankees stepping aside, the Los Angeles Dodgers seized the opportunity to acquire Flaherty from Detroit. In return, the Dodgers sent catcher/first base prospect Thayron Liranzo and shortstop prospect Trey Sweeney to the Tigers.
This acquisition is part of the Dodgers' broader strategy to fortify their pitching rotation as they gear up for a deep postseason run. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Flaherty will be making his first start for the team this weekend against the Oakland Athletics.
Flaherty’s Recent Form
Flaherty's performance this season has had its highlights. He made 18 starts for the Tigers, posting a 2.95 ERA with 33 strikeouts over 106 2/3 innings. More recently, he has shown impressive form, recording a 2.08 ERA and a .560 opponent OPS in his last seven innings. The Tigers even scratched Flaherty from a scheduled start on a Monday as trade negotiations intensified, clearly seeing him as a valuable asset.
A Calculated Risk for the Dodgers
The Dodgers are banking on Flaherty's ability to stay healthy and be a meaningful contributor to their rotation. The decision to move forward with the trade reflects their confidence in his skills and their commitment to strengthening their roster. It's a calculated risk, but one that the Dodgers are willing to take in their quest for postseason success.
Tigers' president Scott Harris, when asked about the trade and purported medical issues, remained tight-lipped. “I can't comment on medical stuff with trades as a general point. And if medical stuff did affect any of the trades, that's not on our end. You can't ask me about that because we're not the one trading for Jack, so not commenting on any of that stuff because I can't,” Harris said.
For the Dodgers, the acquisition of Flaherty signals a bold move aimed at adding depth and talent to their roster. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Flaherty and his ability to rise to the occasion, helping the Dodgers in their pursuit of postseason glory.