“Beyond the Bird: Uncovering the Surprising Shared Passions of Orioles and Cardinals Ace Jack Flaherty”
Title: Jack Flaherty’s Future with the Orioles: A Potential Reunion
The Baltimore Orioles have been linked to several starting pitchers this offseason, but none have garnered more attention than Jack Flaherty. After a rocky start to his Orioles career, Flaherty has shown flashes of brilliance, and the team may be willing to give him another chance. In this article, we’ll explore Flaherty’s past, his current situation, and what the future may hold for him in Baltimore.
Flaherty’s Past
Flaherty, 29, has had a tumultuous career, marked by injuries and inconsistent performance. He was traded to the Orioles at the 2023 deadline and struggled initially, posting a 6.75 ERA in 34 2/3 innings. However, he rebounded in the second half, allowing just one earned run in 34 2/3 innings. Despite his struggles, Flaherty has shown flashes of brilliance, with a 29.9% strikeout rate, 32.1% walk rate, and 5.9% walk rate.
Flaherty’s Current Situation
Flaherty is currently a free agent, having signed a one-year, $14MM contract with the Tigers last offseason. He had a strong season with the Tigers and Dodgers, posting a 3.17 ERA in 162 innings. He was traded to the Dodgers at the deadline and helped them win the World Series. Flaherty’s impressive performance has made him a hot commodity on the free agent market.
The Orioles’ Interest
The Orioles have been linked to Flaherty this offseason, and it’s no surprise. With the team’s rotation lacking a true ace, Flaherty’s upside as a No. 1 starter is exactly what they need. The Orioles have reportedly inquired about Flaherty and other starters, and it’s unclear how many free agents are on their target list.
Why the Orioles Should Sign Flaherty
Signing Flaherty would be a smart move for the Orioles. He’s a proven starter with a track record of success, and his contract is relatively affordable. Flaherty wouldn’t qualify for a qualifying offer, which means the Orioles wouldn’t have to give up any draft picks. Additionally, Flaherty’s modest fastball velocity (93.3 mph) and devastating curveball make him a formidable opponent.
Why the Orioles Shouldn’t Sign Flaherty
While Flaherty has shown flashes of brilliance, his inconsistent track record is a concern. He’s struggled with injuries and has had trouble maintaining his performance over the course of a season. The Orioles may be hesitant to commit to Flaherty long-term, especially given his history of inconsistency.
Conclusion
The Orioles’ interest in Jack Flaherty is no surprise. With their rotation lacking a true ace, Flaherty’s upside as a No. 1 starter is exactly what they need. While his inconsistent track record is a concern, Flaherty’s proven himself to be a capable starter in the past. If the Orioles can secure a reasonable contract, signing Flaherty could be a smart move.
FAQ:
Q: Why is Jack Flaherty a good fit for the Orioles?
A: Flaherty’s upside as a No. 1 starter is exactly what the Orioles need. He’s a proven starter with a track record of success, and his contract is relatively affordable.
Q: What are the concerns about signing Jack Flaherty?
A: Flaherty’s inconsistent track record is a concern. He’s struggled with injuries and has had trouble maintaining his performance over the course of a season.
Q: Why wouldn’t the Orioles sign Jack Flaherty?
A: The Orioles may be hesitant to commit to Flaherty long-term, especially given his history of inconsistency. They may also be looking for a more consistent performer.
Q: What are the alternatives to signing Jack Flaherty?
A: The Orioles have been linked to several other starting pitchers, including Dylan Seth and Luis Castillo. However, acquiring these pitchers would cost the Orioles money in prospects and (in Castillo’s case) some big money. Signing Flaherty would cost Baltimore “only” money and no draft picks.
