Jack Flaherty talks about signing with the Tigers, where he thinks the team is and returning to Dodger Stadium after winning the World Series

While strikeout-minus-walk rate (K-BB%) is widely considered to be among the most crucial pitcher metrics, it's also a good idea to take a look at walk rate (BB%) and ground-ball rate (GB%) to learn more about a starter's skillset.

One name that may have not been high on anyone’s radar heading into Tigers camp was veteran Kenta Maeda, who posted a 7.32 ERA in 16 starts to open 2024. Maeda was demoted to the bullpen, where his work in long relief was an improvement from the first half of his season.

Jack Flaherty and Kenta Maeda combined to allow four runs in five innings in the Detroit Tigers' 6-5 loss to the Boston Red Sox on Thursday.

Because Flaherty pitched until the end of October, his activation into spring games was intentionally delayed. So some rust was expected.

Jack Flaherty talks about signing with the Tigers, where he thinks the team is and returning to Dodger Stadium after winning the World Series

Also, Parker Meadows was not expected to play Monday, even before the spring game against the Jays was canceled. Biceps soreness has him day to day.

Jack Flaherty helped the Los Angeles Dodgers win a World Series title last season. Over the winter, Flaherty signed a two-year, $35 million contract with the Detroit Tigers, including an opt-out after the first season.

Jack Flaherty talks about signing with the Tigers, where he thinks the team is and returning to Los Angeles after winning the World Series

Tigers RHP Jack Flaherty (5-5, 3.24 ERA) vs. Guardians RHP Spencer Howard (1-1, 5.63). Weather: Low 80s and mostly sunny. • Box score Tigers lineup: TBD. WHAT TO DO WITH MAEDA: Detroit Tigers' Kenta Maeda has 7.

Flaherty allowed one run on a hit and two walks across two innings in Thursday's Grapefruit League game against the Red Sox. He struck out two. Flaherty, who signed with Detroit on a two-year, $35 million deal earlier this month,