Tigers’ $20 million pitcher Jack Flaherty confirms 2026 return originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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The Detroit Tigers are coming off a solid season where they found themselves in the postseason for the second straight season. However, it would be much of the same as they lost in the ALDS once again.
Now, they come into the offseason with a ton of questions. Can they sign Tarik Skubal to an extension before he hits free agency after the 2026 season? Can they retain someone like Gleyber Torres, who is an unrestricted free agent?
Luckily for them, Detroit has found the answer for another one of its problems. They received excellent news regarding one of their starting pitchers who had a mutual option this offseason.
Tigers’ $20 million pitcher Jack Flaherty confirms 2926 return
On Tuesday, via ESPN’s Jeff Passan, the Tigers received word that Jack Flaherty would be returning for the 2026 season. He will return to Detroit for one final season before either hitting the open market or signing an extension.
“Detroit Tigers right-hander Jack Flaherty is not opting out of his $20 million contract for 2026, sources tell ESPN. He will return to Detroit, where he has played in each of the last two seasons.”
Detroit can breathe a little easier now knowing that one of its frontline starters will return. He has been someone the club can count on behind Tarik Skubal.
However, even with Flaherty returning, expect the front office to look for another starter, whether that be on the open market or in a trade. While Framber Valdez or Dylan Cease are the most glorious options, signing someone like Brandon Woodruff, who would likely sign a short-term deal.
More MLB news:
- Giants working on deal to bring Bruce Bochy back to San Francisco
- Tigers’ trade prediction nabs two-time All-Star to replace Gleyber Torres
- Padres star Yu Darvish out for 2026 after elbow repair and internal brace
- Giants pressed to retain three-time Cy Young winner over the winter
- Padres urged to re-sign one of their frontline starters in free agency
