Jack Flaherty played a pivotal role in the Los Angeles Dodgers’ recent World Series victory, contributing to their second championship in five years with a decisive five-game series win against the New York Yankees.
In a recent appearance on “The Herd,” Flaherty shared insights about his seamless integration into the Dodgers’ roster this season.
“It felt less like a formal introduction and more like a reunion,” Flaherty remarked to host Colin Cowherd. “It was a warm welcome, and I quickly felt at home. I had a strong start in Oakland, and that set the tone for the rest of my season.”
Growing up in Burbank, California, just a short drive from Dodger Stadium, Flaherty expressed the personal significance of wearing the iconic Dodger blue.
“There’s an undeniable aura about this team,” Flaherty stated. “Matt Kemp once told me, ‘Wearing Dodger blue changes everything. Players elevate their game here.’ That sentiment resonated with me as I joined this storied franchise.”
Kemp, a two-time Gold Glove winner and three-time All-Star, showcased his prowess during his tenure with the Dodgers from 2006 to 2014, averaging impressive stats that included 24 home runs and 83 RBIs each season.
This season, Flaherty recorded a combined 3.17 ERA, 1.07 WHIP, and 194 strikeouts over 162.0 innings across 28 starts. However, his postseason performance was mixed, with a 7.36 ERA over five starts.
His standout postseason moments included strong performances in Game 1 of both the National League Championship Series against the New York Mets and the World Series against the Yankees. Yet, Flaherty encountered challenges in critical games, allowing eight earned runs in Game 5 of the NLCS and exiting Game 5 of the World Series after giving up four earned runs.
At 29 years old, Flaherty’s career has been marred by injuries, having only made 30 regular-season starts once, in 2019, while battling various physical setbacks.
Among the star-studded Dodgers lineup, including Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts, Shohei Ohtani made headlines this season by achieving the first-ever 50-50 season in MLB history, hitting 50 home runs and stealing 50 bases.
Flaherty recalled a particular moment that left a lasting impression on him regarding Ohtani’s extraordinary talent.
“I remember a game against Colorado where he hit a pitch from Kyle Freeland that was two balls above the zone,” Flaherty recounted. “He sent it into the stands, deep into left-center. It was a remarkable display of power that left us all in awe.”
“Even after watching him all season, the players were still blown away by that hit. He remains calm and collected, a true professional,” he added.
As Flaherty prepares for free agency, he finds himself competing with notable left-handers like Blake Snell and Max Fried, as well as right-hander Corbin Burnes, to secure a top contract. This marks Flaherty’s first experience in the open market.
