Before Tuesday’s trade Jack Flaherty deadline, the New York Yankees are reportedly in deep talks to acquire starting pitcher of the Detroit Tigers, according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today Sports.
With a 7-5 record, 2.95 ERA, 133 strikeouts, 10 walks, and a 0.956 WHIP in 16.2 innings pitched in 18 starts, 28-year-old Flaherty is enjoying a great season. His 94th percentile whiff percentage (33.2%), strikeout rate (93rd percentile) and walk rate (94th percentile) are among his exceptional numbers.
With Flaherty, the Yankees hope to strengthen their starting rotation. Flaherty mainly throws a three-pitch combination of a slider, curveball, and four-seam fastball. Every now and then he adds a changeup and sinker to his repertoire.
Even though Jack Flaherty is doing well right now, only two of his previous six seasons have seen him pitch more than 100 innings, raising questions about his longevity. However, he presents himself as a viable rental for New York given his success this season.
The talks demonstrate the Yankees’ calculated attempt to bolster their pitching staff in preparation for the postseason.
