"His return to Detroit helps stabilize the Tigers' rotation in an offseason of potentially seismic change. While the Tigers have no plans to trade soon-to-be two-time Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal, his impending free agency following the 2026 season will prompt teams to pursue potential trades over the winter, sources told ESPN. Beyond Skubal and Flaherty, the Tigers return right-hander Casey Mize, standout rookie Troy Melton and right-hander Reese Olson, who missed much of 2025 with a shoulder injury."
"Flaherty's first go-around in Detroit in 2024 was a smashing success, with a 2.95 ERA and 133 strikeouts against 19 walks in 106.2 innings. He was traded at the deadline to the Los Angeles Dodgers, for whom he started five postseason games en route to a World Series title. He returned in free agency to Detroit on a two-year, $35 million contract. The deal paid Flaherty $25 million this year and included a second year for $10 million."
Jack Flaherty declined to opt out and will return to the Detroit Tigers in 2026 on a $20 million salary. He could have voided the deal but would have faced a qualifying offer and uncertainty in free agency after a down season. In 2025 Flaherty recorded strong strikeout totals but led the American League with 15 losses, allowed 23 home runs in 161 innings, and posted a 4.64 ERA. His return stabilizes a rotation that also includes Tarik Skubal, Casey Mize, rookie Troy Melton and Reese Olson. Detroit finished 87-75, won a wild card series over Cleveland and lost to Seattle in the division series.
Read at ESPN.com
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