Jack Flaherty briefly addresses the Agency during the Dodgers World Series parade

They are the Los Angeles Dodgers World Champions after defeating the New York Yankees in a 7-6 victory in Game 5.

On November 1, it seemed like the entire city of Los Angeles came out and celebrated the victory at the Dodgers World Series victory parade.

During an interview on one of the many double-decker buses, pitcher Jack Flaherty revealed how incredible the fan reaction was and how much he loved it World Series MVP Freddie Freeman.

“It’s unbelievable,” Flaherty said. “It’s like I see pictures of Freddie everywhere and say Freddie is crazy. I love this guy. I would give him a kiss right now. It’s unbelievable when the city shows up.”

Growing up on the outskirts of Los Angeles, Flaherty was still surprised by the city’s response and the sheer number of people.

“I love this city. I never want to leave… I never want to leave.”

That sentiment remained especially poignant considering Flaherty is entering free agency after this season.

Flaherty did not start this season as a Dodger. Instead, he signed a one-year, $14 million contract with the Detroit Tigers. In 18 games with Detroit, Flaherty was 7-5 with a 2.95 ERA and 133 strikeouts in 106.2 innings.

Flaherty was sent to the Dodgers in exchange for two minor league prospects: catcher Theyron Liranzo and shortstop Trey Sweeney.

This turned out to be a great acquisition for Los Angeles. Flaherty played in 10 games for the Dodgers, posting a 6-2 record with a 3.58 ERA and 61 strikeouts in 55.1 innings. Overall, in the 2024 season he boasted a 3.17 ERA and 194 strikeouts.

Flaherty’s postseason stint with the Dodgers wasn’t that impressive. He made his first start in Game 2 of the 2024 National League Divisional Series against the San Diego Padres. He allowed four runs over 5.1 innings, ultimately leading to a 2-10 loss.

Flaherty redeemed himself in the first game against the New York Mets, throwing seven innings with a 2.92 ERA and six strikeouts in a 9-0 loss.

Unfortunately, his next start in the NL Championship Series was not as successful, as Flaherty allowed eight runs in three innings in a 12-6 loss.

Despite this start, Flaherty started the first game against the Yankees. After being sidelined for five innings, Flaherty allowed two home runs in the sixth inning. Still, the Dodgers won 6-3.

Flaherty’s last start came in the final game of the World Series. However, his start left many fans thinking the game was over before it began. In 1.1 innings, Flaherty allowed four runs on two home runs.

Although Flaherty had a mixed postseason performance, there is no doubt that he is a great pitcher who played an important role in helping the Dodgers reach the playoffs.

While there is no telling where free agency will take him, there is no doubt that Flaherty and fans would like to see him back in Los Angeles.

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