Tigers' Jack Flaherty Nears $17 Million Decision After Loss to Royals

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Aug 24, 2025 6:39 PM ET

The Detroit Tigers have emerged as true title contenders in 2025 after returning to the postseason last year. They currently hold a double-digit lead in the AL Central and continue to build momentum heading into September.

After trading starting pitcher Jack Flaherty to the Los Angeles Dodgers at last year’s deadline, the Tigers brought him back in the offseason to bolster their rotation.

Unfortunately, the 29-year-old journeyman has yet to replicate the success he found during his first stint in Detroit.

Through 26 starts this season, Flaherty owns a 7–13 record with a 4.87 ERA. While his strikeout numbers remain consistent, opposing hitters have consistently made hard contact and elevated the ball—leading to damaging results.

Jack Flaherty Shoulders Blame After Rough Start vs. Royals

On Sunday, Flaherty’s struggles continued in a loss to the Kansas City Royals. He allowed 10 hits and eight earned runs over five innings, picking up the loss despite receiving seven runs of support from the Tigers offense.

After the game, Flaherty took full accountability for the outing. “The boys picked me up. We scored eight runs today. That should be a win. That’s the only thought in my head. They picked me up. We score eight runs, it should be a win every time... I've got to do a better job,” he told Evan Woodberry of MLive Media Group.

Jack Flaherty not happy about his day: "The boys picked me up. We scored eight runs today. That should be a win. That’s the only thought in my head. They picked me up. We score eight runs, it should be a win every time...I've got to do a better job."
— Evan Woodbery (@evanwoodbery) August 24, 2025

Struggling Flaherty Likely to Pick Up $17M Player Option

In August, Flaherty has posted a 6.33 ERA with a 1–3 record, allowing 19 earned runs already with another start likely coming this month.

Flaherty rejoined the Tigers on a two-year, $35 million deal this past offseason, which includes a player option for 2026. Given his recent struggles—and the fact that this contract was the best offer he received last winter—he’s likely to pick up the $17 million option and return to Detroit next season.

The Tigers will hope Flaherty can rebound and rediscover the form that once made him a reliable arm. But with October looming, his role in a playoff rotation remains uncertain.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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