Why Jack Flaherty's Reported Agreement With the Tigers Is a Best Case Scenario Fantasy-Wise

It's a potentially significant development fantasy-wise.

Jack Flaherty, the best free-agent starting pitcher remaining, is reportedly no longer a free agent.

Per a report from ESPN’s Jeff Passan on BlueSky on Sunday, Flaherty has reportedly agreed to a two-year deal to return to the Detroit Tigers. Per Passan’s post, “there’s an opt-out after the first season.”

It’s an ideal situation Flaherty’s fantasy ceiling, particularly for fantasy managers in redraft formats, though it’s potentially significant for dynasty managers as well.

But more on that in a bit.

Flaherty split the 2024 season with the Detroit Tigers and the Los Angeles Dodgers, turning in one of the best seasons of his career. We’ll start with the Dodgers bit first.

The veteran starter turned in a solid stretch run with the Los Angeles-based club, logging a 3.58 ERA and a 4.16 FIP in 55.1 innings. He also logged six pitcher wins in 10 starts. The veteran posted a 26.1% strikeout rate and an 8.1% walk rate in a Dodgers uniform during the regular season.