The Detroit Tigers just dropped some tough news: right-hander Jack Flaherty is officially on the 15-day injured list with right flexor inflammation. This isn’t just a minor hiccup; it’s a huge blow to a pitching staff already grinding, especially after Flaherty’s last start where he pitched four innings, giving up three runs on four hits in Monday’s 8-6 victory against the Chicago Cubs. He’s been out there for 19 starts this season, holding a 3-8 record with a 4.59 ERA.
The Bullpen Is Cooked, And Now What?
Let’s be real, Detroit’s bullpen has been absolutely hammered lately. Those guys are weary. Think about it: they had to use four relievers for four and two-thirds innings in Sunday’s tough 3-2 loss to the Los Angeles Angels. Then, they threw five relievers into the mix for six innings just in the series opener against the Cubs! That’s a ton of work, and now a starter is down. Flaherty’s a big part of that rotation, locking down a two-year, $35 million deal back in February 2025, so losing him even for two weeks is a hit.
In his place, the Tigers called up Ty Madden from Triple-A Toledo to get a fresh arm in there. Madden, at 26, has already made seven appearances for Detroit this year, showing some promise with no record and a 3.15 ERA. Over in Toledo, he’s 2-0 with a 4.71 ERA across 11 starts and one relief appearance. Tigers manager A.J. Hinch sounds pretty confident in the guy, saying Madden brings “a little different edge and sort of a different attention to detail” when he’s in the big leagues. Hinch trusts him “a lot to pitch in a variety of roles” because he “challenges the strike zone” and has a “tough, tough combo with his slider and split.” They’re gonna need that right now, big time.
Verlander’s Status Adds to the Drama
And if you thought the pitching drama stopped there, think again. Justin Verlander, who’s 43 and planning to retire after this season, was the first player at Wrigley Field on Tuesday. He’s trying to come back from hip and hamstring injuries. Hinch says his “arm’s still moving,” but they “haven’t gotten to the mound yet.” Once that happens, they “can start to lay out a little bit of a longer plan.” It just piles onto the uncertainty for Detroit’s pitching staff. With Flaherty out and Verlander still rehabbing, those bullpen arms are gonna feel the pressure even more. Every outing for Madden is going to be HUGE in the coming weeks.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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