Jack Flaherty’s frustration with the slow progress of his free agency has reached a boiling point. Despite a solid 2024 season in which he posted a 3.17 ERA over 28 games split between the Detroit Tigers and the Los Angeles Dodgers, his market value has not risen as anticipated. Many believed he would be among the first pitchers signed following big-name deals for players like Blake Snell and Corbin Burnes. However, as January draws to a close, Flaherty remains unsigned, leaving him exasperated and questioning why his free agency is dragging on.
Flaherty’s strong 2024 performance positioned him as a top pitching option for teams in need of starting rotation help. Alongside his 13-7 record, he posted a 3.47 FIP and a 1.07 WHIP, solidifying his credentials as a dependable starter. Yet, his expectation of a swift signing has not materialized, even though quality pitchers are in high demand.
The Dodgers appear unlikely to reunite with Flaherty due to roster constraints. Fans have noted his remarks on free agency, with one post quoting him as saying, “I don’t know what makes it so difficult.” The slow-moving market has sparked a range of opinions, with some understanding Flaherty’s disappointment and others pointing to factors that could explain the delay.
Critics argue that several issues may have contributed to Flaherty’s situation. His struggles in the 2024 postseason, where he gave up nine earned runs over 7.1 innings in two starts, may have caused teams to question his ability to perform in high-pressure situations. Additionally, his contract expectations might be considered too steep given his inconsistency in previous years. From 2021 to 2023, Flaherty battled injuries and posted a combined 4.91 ERA, leading some to view his strong 2024 campaign as an insufficient basis for a long-term, high-value contract.
Doesn’t make sense that the person who started Game 1 of the World Series for the eventual champions remains unsigned well into January. pic.twitter.com/Vh4MrnC1T3
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) January 23, 2025
Some fans have speculated that Flaherty is seeking a deal in the $150 million range, which teams might hesitate to offer due to his uneven performance history. While his 2019 dominance with the St. Louis Cardinals showcased his potential, his injury troubles and lack of sustained success since then have likely raised concerns. MLB free agency often prioritizes recent performance, and teams may be wary of committing to a player with such a varied track record.
Criticism of Flaherty’s self-perception has also emerged. One fan suggested that Flaherty overestimates his value, describing him as a solid middle-of-the-rotation pitcher rather than a true ace. Concerns about his attitude, injury history, and reliability to compete consistently every fifth start have also been highlighted. Others argue that while Flaherty’s 2024 performance was strong, it may not fully outweigh years of inconsistency and injury struggles.
The broader market dynamics in MLB have also played a role. Teams have become more cautious with their spending, partly due to the expanded playoff format, which incentivizes cost-conscious roster construction. The abundance of pitchers already filling roster spots has further limited Flaherty’s options. While teams like the Orioles, Cubs, and Blue Jays initially expressed interest, they have since pursued other avenues, leaving Flaherty in a difficult position.
For many fans, Flaherty’s free agency reflects a larger trend in MLB, where even top players struggle to find contracts. Dodgers fans, in particular, remain divided on a potential reunion. While some are eager for Flaherty to return, others point to his postseason struggles and question whether he is worth the investment. The Dodgers’ limited roster space and financial constraints add another layer of complexity, making a reunion increasingly unlikely.
Ultimately, Flaherty’s situation underscores the challenges facing free agents in today’s MLB. Despite his potential and strong 2024 performance, his market has been hindered by past inconsistencies, high contract demands, and a cautious spending environment. Unless he can prove greater consistency, Flaherty may remain in free agency limbo.