The Detroit Tigers are expected to be aggressive in the coming weeks of the season ahead of this year's trade deadline. It is possible that all phases of the game are improved with the team's lineup, rotation, and bullpen all having arguments for needed upgrades. If the team does opt to add to the rotation, it wouldn't be a surprise to see offseason signing Jack Flaherty exit in a midseason trade. At the current moment, it would be an especially welcome move with the veteran hurler having given up 15 earned runs in his last 7.0 innings of work. This is hardly the veteran stabilizing force the Tigers were hoping for when signing the veteran.
Flaherty's 4.83 ERA demonstrates just how wildly inconsistent the starter has been for Detroit. It is a guessing game, which version of the veteran is going to show up on any given start. This isn't what the Tigers believed they were signing and makes the veteran a great piece to attempt to move off of during Detroit's midseason moves.
The Tigers Would be Wise to Trade Jack Flaherty
Flaherty is under contract for the 2026 season as well and isn't likely to become a better asset. If there is any team willing to take on the contract in deadline deals, the Tigers should pull the trigger. This isn't based only on the recent struggles, but the inconsistent production the starter has displayed throughout the season.
If the Tigers are serious about building a World Series contender, they need to bring in an arm with a higher upside or one that can offer more consistency. Even at Flaherty's best, the starter is a limited option that isn't going to be a feared option in the postseason. All of this adds up to the Tigers making the wrong decision and needing to search for an escape.
If there is a team willing to take on the deal, it makes sense to pull the trigger even if you're not getting top value in return. The Tigers need to find an upgrade and move on from a signing that clearly isn't working out in the team's favor.