The recent Major League Baseball trade deadline generated significant excitement, with numerous moves reshaping team rosters. Among the most captivating transactions was the Los Angeles Dodgers’ acquisition of right-hander Jack Flaherty, a deal that almost didn't come to fruition.
A Deal Almost Made
Initially, the New York Yankees appeared poised to secure Flaherty's services, having finalized a preliminary agreement with the Detroit Tigers. However, after a thorough review of Flaherty's medical records, the Yankees opted out. This decision underscores the complexities that medical histories can introduce into trade negotiations.
Flaherty’s injury history was a central concern for the Yankees. The right-hander had grappled with shoulder troubles in 2021 and 2022, and more recently, a lower back issue led to him missing a start in early July, necessitating two injections. Such a medical background could make any team cautious, a reality that the Yankees are familiar with. Two years prior, the Yankees acquired Frankie Montas, who had missed starts due to shoulder inflammation. Montas subsequently underwent surgery the following spring, sidelining him for nearly the entire season.
Tigers Move Forward with Dodgers
Despite these medical concerns, the Dodgers saw an opportunity. They successfully traded catcher/first base prospect Thayron Liranzo and shortstop prospect Trey Sweeney to the Tigers in exchange for Flaherty. The Dodgers' front office believes in Flaherty’s potential to solidify their pitching rotation as they eye a deep postseason run.
Flaherty's recent performance offers reasons for optimism. In 18 starts for the Tigers this season, he posted a respectable 2.95 ERA with 33 strikeouts over 106 2/3 innings. More recently, his outings have included an impressive 2.08 ERA and a .560 opponent's OPS over his last seven innings. The Tigers even scratched Flaherty from a scheduled start as trade negotiations ramped up, underscoring his value in the market.
Flaherty's First Start
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Flaherty will be making his first start for the team this weekend against the Oakland Athletics. This debut will be closely watched, as the Dodgers are betting on Flaherty’s ability to stay healthy and be a key contributor down the stretch.
“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,” said Tigers president Scott Harris, when queried about the role medical concerns played in trade decisions.
Calculated Risks and Strategic Moves
The Dodgers have certainly taken a calculated risk in acquiring Flaherty. Bolstering their rotation with a pitcher of his caliber, particularly with his recent form, reflects their commitment to strengthening the roster and confidence in their medical evaluations.
As the Dodgers edge closer to the postseason, all eyes will be on Flaherty’s performances. Can he maintain his recent form and help propel the Dodgers in their quest for another championship? The upcoming games will provide crucial insights into how this trade will ultimately be judged.
For now, the Dodgers have chosen to embrace the risk associated with Flaherty’s injury history, focusing instead on the potential rewards. This trade serves as a reminder of the intricate balance between risk and reward that teams must navigate as they aim to build championship-caliber rosters.