3 Teams Named As Leading Contenders for Free Agent Jack Flaherty

Jack Flaherty proved he was back in 2024. After years of injury problems derailed his once Cy Young-contending career, Flaherty bounced back, with his first healthy AND productive season since 2019. And he has a World Series ring to show for it in 2024.

Now as a free agent, Flaherty has his 13-7 record from 2024 with a 3.17 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and impeccable control (194:38 strikeout to walk ratio) to speak for him.

And while the LA Dodgers don't appear ready to commit a new deal to keep Flaherty in the fold, according to reports, there are three teams that would be the leading contenders for his services.

Baltimore Orioles

This one might sound strange, as he vastly underperformed for them after they acquired him at the 2023 trade deadline, posting a 6.75 ERA in nine outings. But insider Ken Rosenthal tells us that "Baltimore officials, however, recognized he was worn down. Flaherty already had thrown 109 2/3 innings after combining for only 154 2/3 the previous three seasons due to injuries."

And if they lose Corbin Burnes now, as expected, Flaherty could be a decent fallback option for them.

Boston Red Sox

Rosenthal also mentions the Red Sox as an option for Flaherty, despite their recent addition of Garrett Crochet. The BoSox were hoping to add two elite starters to their rotation this offseason. And, says the insider of Flaherty, Boston "liked him" last winter before watching him sign with the Detroit Tigers.

Atlanta Braves

Fellow Athletic insider Jim Bowden picks the Braves as his choice to sign Flaherty. He says that Flaherty—if the medicals show his back is okay—"would be a nice pivot for the Braves" who have already lost elite starter Max Fried this winter, and Charlie Morton's future is unclear.