The St. Louis Cardinals are looking forward to seeing what they have in right-hander Jack Flaherty this spring.
The 27-year-old has missed significant time over the past two seasons while dealing with oblique and shoulder injuries.
Last September, he returned and pitched admirably.
And so far this spring, the young right-hander has been impressive, which is a good sign for the team.
On Thursday, he got the start for St. Louis against the defending World Series champion Houston Astros in Grapefruit League play.
He allowed a run in the first inning, but responded with a perfect second inning, which he capped off with a 94-MPH fastball that caught David Hensley looking.
Flaherty with some HEAT to cap off the perfect inning. #STLCards
TV: Bally Sports Midwest
Stream: https://t.co/YtbYX93joi pic.twitter.com/sLa0iwbmB0— Bally Sports Midwest (@BallySportsMW) March 16, 2023
This is a good sign for the Cardinals.
Flaherty is a free agent at the end of the 2023 season along with Miles Mikolas and Jordan Montgomery.
This year represents a chance for him to prove himself and re-establish a presence at the top of St. Louis’ rotation.
If the young right-hander stays healthy and pitches like the ace he once was, then the Cardinals should be in good shape for 2023, and it could open the door for a potential contract extension at a later point in the season.
Flaherty was the team’s Opening Day starter in 2020 and 2021 before injuries derailed him, but the Cardinals liked what they saw out of him last September and believe he can return to his ace form.
It’s also important, as there are several question marks surrounding Adam Wainwright and his diminished velocity.
Flaherty could assume the role of ace and carry the torch for the Cardinals if Wainwright struggles.
NEXT: Former Cardinals Outfielder Celebrates A Birthday
