Milwaukee Brewers: A Former NL Central Pitcher GM Matt Arnold Should Pursue
The Milwaukee Brewers, contenders rumored to be seeking starting pitchers as the July 30 trade deadline approaches, should have their sights set on more than just Garrett Crochet and Jesus Luzardo. There’s a former National League Central pitcher emerging as a prime trade target that GM Matt Arnold should consider.
The Brewers’ Urgent Need for Starting Pitching
It’s clear the Brewers are in dire need of bolstering their starting pitching, with their depth severely tested this season. Twelve different players have started games for them, and key pitchers like DL Hall, Jakob Junis, Joe Ross, and Robert Gasser are currently on the injured list. Fortunately, these players are expected to return throughout the season, potentially restoring the team’s depth.
However, even with their return, Arnold’s priority should be improving the rotation’s quality by acquiring a premier starting pitcher to act as the team’s ace. Colin Rea has been the most reliable starter so far, while Opening Day pitcher Freddy Peralta has struggled recently.
Jack Flaherty: A Prime Target for the Brewers
One potential trade target is former St. Louis Cardinals right-hander Jack Flaherty. From 2017-2023, Flaherty experienced various highs and lows with the Cardinals, ending his tenure with a 3.58 ERA despite injury challenges. Now with the Detroit Tigers, Flaherty has posted a 16.2 scoreless innings streak, lowering his 2024 season ERA to 3.01 across 13 starts, thus boosting his trade value.
Flaherty’s Availability and Potential Trade
Currently, the Detroit Tigers hold a 34-38 record and are six games behind the final American League Wild Card spot. With three of their division opponents (Cleveland Guardians, Kansas City Royals, and Minnesota Twins) potentially making the playoffs if the season ended today, trading Flaherty, who signed a one-year, $14 million deal last off-season, makes strategic sense for them.
Given the Brewers’ needs and Flaherty’s status as a rental, GM Matt Arnold should reach out to the Tigers to inquire about their asking price. Flaherty would likely cost less in terms of prospect capital compared to Crochet or Luzardo, making him an appealing option to strengthen the Brewers’ rotation.
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