Jack Flaherty of the Detroit Tigers wins 3-2 over the Rays despite striking out eight in his final spring start.
LAKELAND, Florida — On Sunday, the Detroit Tigers defeated the Tampa Bay Rays at Joker Marchant Stadium’s Publix Field, 3-2.
In Grapefruit League play, the Tigers have a record of 20-9-3.
What transpired: In his final spring training start, right-hander Jack Flaherty struck out the first four batters he faced: former Tiger Isaac Paredes (called strike, 95 mph fastball), Randy Arozarena (called strike, 94 mph fastball), and José Caballero (foul tip, 86 mph slider).
After agreeing to a $14 million, one-year deal in the offseason, Flaherty threw 63 of 87 pitches for strikes in 4⅔ innings and struck out eight batters without giving up a walk. After six spring games, the 28-year-old had a 2.95 ERA, 26 strikeouts in 18⅓ innings.
“The way my body moves and my ability to replicate anything,” Flaherty remarked. “The previous year, I would have strong starts, innings, or hitters, but I would not be able to duplicate that performance. I was like, “Where is my body in space?” the following time out. I think I have gotten much better at repeating things over and over again this spring.”
