The Houston Astros are currently locked in a close division race in 2024. Despite a slow start to the season that left them trailing the division leader, they have now pulled ahead, holding a one-game lead over the Seattle Mariners going into Friday’s game. There have been rumors about the team’s moves as the trade deadline approaches, particularly concerning starting pitching. The Astros were previously linked with the Chicago Cubs’ Jameson Taillon, but a new name has now come into the spotlight.
According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, the Astros have been in contact with the Detroit Tigers regarding right-hander Jack Flaherty. Flaherty, who signed a one-year, $14 million contract with the Tigers in the last offseason to boost his market value, is considered a true rental this deadline.
The 28-year-old had struggled in the previous few seasons, with a 6.75 ERA in his last nine starts of 2023. However, he has made a significant turnaround in 2024. In 18 starts, Flaherty has recorded a 2.98 ERA, a 0.956 WHIP, and 133 strikeouts over 106.2 innings, placing him in the top nine for strikeouts in baseball.
His quick return to his 2019 form has made him an appealing option for teams looking for rental players to bolster their playoff chances. For the Astros, who have been missing many of their expected starters due to injury this season, adding another reliable arm is crucial.
Astros’ GM Dana Brown has expressed the team’s desire for a third or fourth starter, and Flaherty seems to fit that need. Despite being a rental, his impressive season has made him an attractive acquisition for Houston as they aim for a deep playoff run.
