Jack Flaherty Injury News & Updates

Flaherty secured a spot on the Orioles' roster for their ALDS matchup against Texas, Evan Grant of The Dallas Morning News reports.

Flaherty hasn't been used often since being moved to the bullpen, but he's been effective in the games he has pitched, allowing one run in three innings while striking out four batters. With John Means (elbow) left off the Orioles' playoff roster, Flaherty may have an opportunity to return to a starting role in the postseason.

Flaherty was transferred to the Orioles' bullpen Tuesday, Jake Rill of MLB.com reports.

Flaherty has put up a 7.11 ERA and 1.67 WHIP across 31.2 innings since joining the Orioles, and he'll now lose his spot in Baltimore's rotation as a result. Manager Brandon Hyde said there's a chance Flaherty returns to the rotation down the line, but the 27-year-old righty will likely need to show major improvement in order for that to happen.

Flaherty (8-9) allowed three earned runs on six hits and a walk while striking out six across four innings to take the loss Friday against the Rays.

Flaherty had an uneven performance, with the positive being that he racked up 15 swinging strikes on only 79 pitchers. On the other hand, he allowed a lot of hard contact, including two doubles and a solo home run. Overall, Flaherty has now failed to work at least five innings in four of his last five turns through the rotation, during which he has a 9.15 ERA and 1.89 WHIP to go along with a 22:8 K:BB across 20.2 frames.

Flaherty did not factor into the decision Saturday, allowing five runs (four earned) on eight hits and one walk over 3.1 innings against Boston. He struck out three.

The 27-year-old served up a two-run homer to Justin Turner in the first inning and coughed up two more earned runs in the fourth before exiting with one out in the frame. Flaherty hasn't completed six innings in any of his five starts since his Baltimore debut Aug. 3, posting an 0-2 record with unsightly ratios (8.73 ERA and 1.85 WHIP) across 21.2 innings during that stretch. He currently lines up to take the hill at home against Tampa Bay next week.

Flaherty allowed four runs on six hits and a walk while striking out seven over 4.2 innings in a no-decision versus the Diamondbacks.

Flaherty worked around a couple of early solo shots, but he ran into trouble in the fifth inning and failed to complete that frame. It's another disappointing outing for Flaherty, who has allowed three or more runs in four of his five starts for the Orioles, pitching to a 6.66 ERA over 24.1 innings. He's at a 4.84 ERA, 1.54 WHIP and 135:64 K:BB through 134 innings overall when accounting for his time with the Cardinals. Flaherty is projected for a road start in Boston his next time out.

Flaherty did not factor into the decision Sunday, allowing three runs on seven hits and one walk over 5.2 innings against the Rockies. He struck out three.

Flaherty was one out from earning a quality start, but a two-out RBI single from Hunter Goodman in the sixth forced him from the game. He rebounded from allowing seven runs in his last start, but Flaherty hasn't lasted six full innings since his initial start with the Orioles on Aug. 3. Flaherty now has a 6.41 ERA over four outings with his new club. He'll look to rebound the next time he toes the rubber, which is currently scheduled to take place over the weekend in Arizona.

Flaherty (general soreness) will start for the Orioles on Sunday versus the Rockies, Roch Kubatko of MASNSports.com reports.

It had been trending in that direction and manager Brandon Hyde confirmed after Saturday's victory that Flaherty is ready to go for Sunday. The right-hander had to be scratched from his previously scheduled start due to general soreness, with the pitching saying only that he had trouble bouncing back from his last outing. Flaherty has been up-and-down in three starts since joining the Orioles, getting tagged for seven runs over just three innings in his last outing.

Flaherty (soreness) is expected to start Saturday's game against the Rockies, Roch Kubatko of MASNSports.com reports.

Flaherty was originally expected to start Wednesday against Toronto but wound up being scratched with general soreness. Assuming he does indeed get officially cleared to start Sunday, he'll wind up missing less than one full turn through the rotation. Flaherty gave up seven runs in three innings against the Padres in his previous outing, but soreness may have played a part in those poor numbers.

Orioles manager Brandon Hyde said Friday that he's hopeful Flaherty (general soreness) can return to the rotation in a couple of days, Byron Kerr of MLB.com reports.

Flaherty experienced some general soreness following his last start Aug. 15 against the Padres, during which he was lit up for seven earned runs on four hits and four walks over just three innings. Kyle Bradish will start for Baltimore on Saturday against the visiting Rockies, but the O's rotation grid beyond that is to be determined. Flaherty could perhaps handle Sunday's series finale versus Colorado or Monday's series opener versus the White Sox.

Orioles manager Brandon Hyde said Wednesday that Flaherty is dealing with "general soreness," Roch Kubatko of MASNSports.com reports.

Hyde downplayed it as a typical between-starts issue and noted that Flaherty just needs a bit more rest, though it's unclear when the 27-year-old right-hander will slot into the rotation again. Dean Kremer got the start in his place Wednesday versus the Blue Jays and Flaherty seems unlikely to be rushed back for Thursday's series finale. He'll be reevaluated heading into the O's three-game weekend series against the Rockies.

Flaherty (undisclosed) said Wednesday that he doesn't know when he'll make his next start, Roch Kubatko of MASNSports.com reports.

Flaherty was scheduled to take the mound for the Orioles on Wednesday night against the Blue Jays, but he told reporters that he didn't "bounce back" well following his last turn in the rotation Aug. 15 in San Diego. Asked whether it was physical or mechanical, the 27-year-old right-hander declined to get into specifics. He has surrendered 11 earned runs in 14 innings (three starts) since being acquired from the Cardinals at the Aug. 1 trade deadline.

Flaherty is no longer starting for the Orioles on Wednesday against the Blue Jays, Nathan Ruiz of The Baltimore Sun reports.

It's not clear what, if any, injury Flaherty is dealing with, but Dean Kremer will now take the ball Wednesday and the Orioles currently don't have a starter listed for Thursday versus Toronto. Flaherty was roughed up for seven runs over just three innings against the Padres in his last outing.

Flaherty (8-8) allowed seven runs on four hits and four walks while striking out three over three innings to take the loss Tuesday versus the Padres.

Most of the damage came in a five-run first inning, which was punctuated by a Gary Sanchez grand slam. Flaherty has shown little consistency over his three starts with the Orioles, allowing 11 runs over 14 innings with a 1-2 record for his new team. Overall, the right-hander is at a 4.73 ERA, 1.55 WHIP and 125:62 K:BB through 123.2 innings between Baltimore and St. Louis. With two off days within the next week, Flaherty is expected to have a full week between starts before next taking the mound at home against the Blue Jays.

Flaherty (8-7) took the loss Wednesday, giving up three runs on six hits and two walks over five innings as the Orioles fell 8-2 to the Astros. He struck out eight.

The right-hander's second start with Baltimore didn't go nearly as well as his first, as Kyle Tucker launched a two-run homer off Flaherty in the first inning, but he settled down after that and kept the game close until the O's bullpen unraveled late. Flaherty has an impressive 16:4 K:BB through his first 11 innings with his new squad, and since the beginning of July he sports a 3.10 ERA, 1.38 WHIP and 42:14 K:BB through 40.2 frames and seven outings. He'll look for a better result in his next start, likely to come early next week in San Diego.

Flaherty (8-6) earned the win Thursday, allowing one run on four hits and two walks over six innings in a 6-1 win over the Blue Jays. He struck out eight.

After allowing a single and a walk to start the ballgame, Flaherty settled in, retiring 15 consecutive Blue Jays in dominant fashion. His only blemish came on an RBI single by Vladimir Guerrero in the sixth. The recently acquired 27-year-old has now earned wins in five of his last seven outings despite a 4.00 ERA and 1.47 WHIP across 36 innings during that span. Flaherty is tentatively scheduled to face Houston in his next start.

Flaherty will make his Orioles debut in a start Thursday at Toronto, Steve Melewski of MASNSports.com reports.

Flaherty was acquired from the Cardinals ahead of Tuesday's trade deadline in exchange for prospects Cesar Prieto and Drew Rom. The 27-year-old impending free agent right-hander had pitched to a 4.43 ERA, 1.55 WHIP and 106:54 K:BB through 109.2 innings (20 starts) this season for St. Louis.

The Cardinals traded Flaherty to Baltimore on Tuesday in exchange for Cesar Prieto and Drew Rom, Jeff Passan of ESPN.com reports.

After putting up a 4.43 ERA and 1.55 WHIP through 109.2 innings across 20 starts with the Cardinals, Flaherty will provide a boost to an Orioles rotation that has been without John Means (elbow/back) all season. Flaherty was scheduled to make his next start Wednesday, though it's unclear when he will debut for the Orioles.

Flaherty took a no-decision Wednesday in Arizona after he gave up three runs on eight hits and two walks in five-plus innings. He struck out four.

The right-hander was staked a 2-0 lead but was unable to maintain the advantage as the Diamondbacks tallied two runs in the third inning and another in the sixth. Flaherty has given up at least three runs in each of his past three starts and has a 5.29 ERA across 17 innings during that stretch. It was likely his last start with the Cardinals since his next turn through the rotation won't come until after the trade deadline.

Flaherty (7-6) took the loss Friday, allowing four runs on eight hits and one walk over six innings against the Cubs. He struck out six.

Aside from a four-run third, Flaherty was sharp, but during that tumultuous inning, the right-hander allowed two home runs and an RBI double -- all to left-handed hitters. Coming into the contest, Flaherty had surrendered just three runs over his previous three outings (18.2 innings) and posted a 16:7 K:BB during that stretch. He'd also given up just one home run over his past 10 appearances, and Friday's outing was the first time this season he allowed multiple long balls in the same game. Flaherty started just 32 games from 2020-2022, so it's encouraging to see him pitching on a regular basis in 2023, but he's been a hit-or-miss fantasy option thus far.

Flaherty (7-5) got the win over the Nationals on Sunday after allowing three runs on three hits and three walks while striking out seven over six innings.

Flaherty served up a solo home run to Keibert Ruiz in the second but then went on to retire 12 of the next 13 batters before the Nationals eventually tacked on two more in the sixth. It was Flaherty's third straight quality start although it was also the fifth time in his last six outings he's issued multiple walks. The 27-year-old is working with a 4.29 ERA, 1.53 WHIP and 96:51 K:BB in 98.2 innings this year. He tentatively lines up to face the Cubs on the road this upcoming week.

Flaherty (6-5) earned the win Thursday, allowing nine hits and two walks over 6.2 scoreless innings against the Marlins. He struck out five.

Flaherty did an incredible job limiting damage Thursday, keeping the Marlins off the scoreboard despite giving up nine hits. The outing marked Flaherty's second consecutive scoreless appearance, showcasing that he's fully recovered from a hip injury that forced him to miss a turn in the rotation in late June. Though the 27-year-old owns a 4.27 ERA on the season (17 starts), the statistic has been inflated by three poor outings in which he's given up 10 runs once and six runs twice. Not including the trio of starts, Flaherty has a more tolerable 2.71 ERA. He's tentatively lined up to toe the rubber in the Cardinals' first game after the All-Star break at home versus the Nationals.

Flaherty (5-5) earned the win Saturday, allowing four hits and two walks over six scoreless innings against the Yankees. He struck out four.

Flaherty got himself back on track Saturday after allowing six runs in each of his last two starts. The right-hander only whiffed four batters but produced 11 swinging strikes en route to his fifth win of the season. Flaherty has actually allowed one earned run or fewer in four of his last six starts and was able to lower his ERA from 4.95 to 4.60 with his performance against the Yankees.

Flaherty (hip) has been cleared to start Saturday against the Yankees, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Flaherty had been lined up to handle Thursday's series finale versus the Astros, but the Cardinals will give him a couple extra days of rest after he was scratched from his last turn in the rotation Sunday in London due to hip discomfort. The 27-year-old right-hander carries a disappointing 4.95 ERA, 1.60 WHIP and 80:44 K:BB through 80 innings (15 starts) this season with St. Louis.

The Cardinals are still assessing Flaherty (hip) to determine whether he can start Thursday vs. the Astros, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Flaherty, who was scratched from his scheduled start over the weekend with hip discomfort, hasn't pitched since June 19, and could wind up on the injured list if he has to miss another turn in the rotation. Adam Wainwright could start Thursday on normal rest if Flaherty isn't ready, with Jake Woodford and Steven Matz the likely replacement options for the fifth spot in the rotation.

Flaherty has been scratched from his start Sunday against the Cubs due to hip discomfort, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

Flaherty worked 6.1 innings in his previous outing, so it's unclear when the issue popped up. Assuming it's a short-term absence, the Cardinals shouldn't have an issue filling his spot in the rotation as they have only two games in a five-day stretch that began Thursday. No starter has officially been announced in Flaherty's place.

Flaherty (4-5) earned the win Monday, allowing six runs on 10 hits and one walk over 6.1 innings against the Nationals. He struck out five.

Flaherty allowed five runs through the first two frames, but he was able to keep the Cardinals within striking distance by tossing four straight scoreless innings before getting into trouble again in the seventh. It was just the third time all season that the right-hander had recorded an out in the seventh inning. Despite earning the win Monday, Flaherty has struggled over his last two starts, allowing 20 hits and 12 earned runs with a 8:4 K:BB across 10.2 innings. Before that, he'd allowed three or fewer runs in six straight starts, posting a 2.06 ERA and 1.37 WHIP during that stretch. Flaherty will look to get back on track in his next outing, which is tentatively scheduled during the Cardinals' two-game set versus the Cubs in London.

Flaherty (3-5) took the loss Tuesday as the Cardinals were routed 11-3 by the Giants, coughing up six runs on 10 hits and three walks over 4.1 innings. He struck out three.

The right-hander extended his streak of starts without serving up a homer to six, but keeping the ball in the park didn't do him much good Tuesday as the Giants banged out eight singles and two doubles off him. Considering Flaherty had a 1.50 ERA and 33:13 K:BB in 30 innings over those five prior outings, this performance doesn't appear to herald a return to his shakier early-season form. The 27-year-old will look to put the bad night behind him and get back into a groove in his next start, likely to come early next week on the road against the Nationals.

Flaherty allowed three hits and five walks while striking out eight over six shutout innings in a no-decision versus the Rangers on Wednesday.

Flaherty has walked at least four batters in five of his 13 starts this season, but he's 1-1 with three no-decisions in those outings. He was a little less dominant than opposing pitcher Jon Gray, who threw a complete game, but Flaherty was able to keep a challenging lineup in check. He hasn't allowed more than three runs in any of his last six starts, and he's given up one run or less in four of them. For the season, he's at a 4.15 ERA with a 1.50 WHIP and 72:40 K:BB through 69.1 innings. The elevated walk rate remains a concern, one Flaherty will look to get back under control in a projected home start versus the Giants next week.

Flaherty didn't factor into the decision in Friday's 7-5 loss to the Pirates, allowing one run on six hits and a walk over 5.1 innings. He struck out six.

The right-hander continues to turn his season around. Flaherty gave up one run or less for the third time in his last four starts, exiting the game in line for his fourth win after 101 pitches (61 strikes), but the Cardinals' bullpen fell apart. Over his last five outings, Flaherty has a 2.48 ERA, 1.38 WHIP and 28:13 K:BB through 29 innings, He'll look to keep rolling in his next start, likely to come on the road next week against the Rangers.

Flaherty allowed one run on seven hits and one walk while striking out four batters over seven innings in a no-decision against Cleveland on Saturday.

Flaherty has struggled mightily with free passes this season -- he entered Saturday with 33 walks over 51 innings -- so it was a a big step in the right direction for him to walk just one batter in the outing. The improved control helped the right-hander tie his season high with seven innings, and he picked up just his third quality start over 11 appearances. Flaherty induced only six swinging strikes and posted a modest four punchouts, but this was nonetheless one of his best starts of the campaign. Though his 4.81 season ERA is nothing to celebrate, it's trending in the right direction again after ballooning to 6.29 following a 2.1 inning, 10-run blowup against the Angels on May 4.

Flaherty allowed three runs on four hits and four walks while striking out five over 4.2 innings in a no-decision versus the Dodgers on Sunday.

Flaherty has walked four or more batters in four of his 10 starts this season, but he'd done so only once in his last six outings. The Dodgers were able to run up his pitch count quickly, and he exited with 103 pitches (61 strikes) while failing to qualify for the win. The right-hander is now at a 5.29 ERA, 1.59 WHIP and 54:33 K:BB through 51 innings this year. He's projected to make his next start on the road in Cleveland.

Flaherty (3-4) earned the win over Milwaukee on Monday, pitching seven scoreless innings during which he allowed three hits and two walks while striking out 10 batters.

Flaherty had been struggling mightily entering Monday, allowing 18 runs (17 earned) and walking eight batters over his previous 12 innings. He turned things around by limiting the Brewers to three singles and two walks while posting a season-high 10 punchouts. Flaherty racked up 17 swinging strikes in the outing, and he completed seven frames for the first time this season en route to just his second quality start. While this was a very positive start for the veteran, he still has an unimpressive 5.24 ERA on the season. He'll try to build upon this outing in his next start, which is lined up to come against the Dodgers this weekend.

Flaherty allowed three runs on seven hits and five walks while striking out three over five innings in a no-decision versus the Cubs on Tuesday.

Flaherty has walked five or more batters in three of his eight starts this season, though he'd seemingly gotten the issue under control recently. He avoided taking a third straight loss Tuesday, but it was still a less-than-impressive outing. The right-hander is at a 6.18 ERA, 1.73 WHIP and 39:27 K:BB across 39.1 innings. He's tentatively projected for a tough home start versus the Brewers next week.

Flaherty (hand) is listed as the Cardinals' probable starting pitcher for Tuesday's game against the Cubs at Wrigley Field.

Though Flaherty was struck on his left hand by a comebacker in his most recent start last Thursday against the Angels, he didn't suffer any sort of significant injury and was pulled from the contest mostly for performance-related reasons, as he surrendered 10 earned runs over just 2.1 innings. Flaherty will thus be good to go on his normal four days' rest to take the hill Tuesday, but a road matchup against the Cubs along with his dreadful numbers this season (6.29 ERA, 1.63 WHIP and 36:22 K:BB in 34.1 innings) no longer make him the must-start fantasy option he has been for most of his career.

Flaherty's exit from Thursday's game against the Angels was not due to the comebacker that hit his left hand, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Flaherty was lit up Thursday, yielding 10 earned runs over just 2.1 innings, so it's easy to believe poor performance was the reason for his early exit. Flaherty will likely be able to make his next scheduled start, though the team may still keep an eye on his hand.

Flaherty was lifted from his start Thursday against the Angels after taking a comebacker off his left hand, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

The good news is that it was Flaherty's non-throwing hand and he didn't appear to be in too much pain. The bad news is that he was charged with 10 earned runs on nine hits and two walks over just 2.1 frames as his season ERA ballooned from 3.94 ERA all the way to 6.29. Flaherty tallied three strikeouts across the 17 batters he faced.

Flaherty (2-3) allowed five runs (four earned) on seven hits and two walks while striking out seven over 4.2 innings, taking the loss Friday versus the Dodgers.

Flaherty also hit one batter. He needed 110 pitches (68 strikes) to record 14 outs. The right-hander was effectively wild earlier in the season, but he's now allowed at least three runs in three straight games and a home run in four straight outings despite cutting back on the walks. He's posted a 3.94 ERA, 1.44 WHIP and 33:21 K:BB across 32 innings over six starts. Flaherty's next outing is projected for a home start versus the Angels next week.

Flaherty (2-2) allowed three runs on five hits and two walks over six inning Sunday, striking out nine and earning a win over Seattle.

All three runs against Flaherty came during the second inning, including Jarred Kelenic's solo homer. After that, Flaherty gave up just one hit over four shutout frames. He set new season highs with nine punchouts and 23 whiffs; his previous highs in those categories were six and 12, respectively. Since walking 13 batters in his first two outings, Flaherty has posted a 19:6 K:BB over his last three starts. He'll carry a 3.29 ERA into his next start, which is currently lined up to be a road matchup with the Dodgers.

Flaherty (1-2) took the loss Monday, allowing four runs on four hits and three walks over six innings against the Diamondbacks. He struck out four.

Flaherty allowed a leadoff double to Josh Rojas and an RBI single to Ketel Marte to start the game, but he escaped the frame with back-to-back groundouts, including a double-play. The right-hander proceeded to toss five solid frames before getting pulled after allowing the first three hitters in the seventh to reach, including a leadoff homer by Marte. Cardinals reliever Andre Pallante couldn't stop the momentum and served up a grand slam to Pavin Smith, adding two more runs to Flaherty's line. Overall, it was mixed results for Flaherty, who posted season highs in innings and runs allowed. Through four starts (21.1 innings), he has a 2.95 ERA and a 1.41 WHIP with as many strikeouts (17) as walks.

Flaherty did not factor into the decision Wednesday, allowing one earned run on five hits and one walk over 5.1 innings during a 7-4 win over the Rockies. He struck out six.

Flaherty allowed a leadoff homer to Jurickson Profar in the first, but he was able to lock in after that and recorded nine consecutive outs at one point. The right-hander surrendered an unearned run in the fourth due to a passed ball by Willson Contreras, but he was still in line for the win after getting pulled in the sixth with one out and runners on second and third. Zack Thompson got out of the jam, so no more runs were charged to Flaherty, who's had mixed results to start the campaign. Through three outings (15.1 innings), Flaherty has given up just three earned runs on nine hits, but he's walked 14 compared to just 13 strikeouts.

Flaherty (1-1) was charged with the loss Friday in Milwaukee after he gave up two runs on four hits and six walks across five innings. He struck out three.

The Brewers tallied two runs on three hits and two walks during the third inning, but Flaherty was otherwise able to limit the damage. The right-hander threw just 50 of his 94 pitches for strikes, and he's now walked 13 batters through his first two starts. Flaherty has allowed just two runs on four singles in 10 frames, but it's only a matter of time before the free passes come around to score if he's unable more consistently find the zone.

Flaherty (1-0) picked up the win Friday, throwing five no-hit, scoreless innings and striking out four but walking a career-high seven batters in a 4-1 victory over the Blue Jays.

The right-hander also hit a batter with a pitch and ultimately threw only 49 of 95 pitches for strikes, but Flaherty was able to wriggle out of every jam he created. Making the win even more remarkable, the Cards' go-ahead runs in the third inning were all unearned as Kevin Gausman was posting excellent numbers for the Jays. Flaherty hasn't worked more than 87.1 innings in a season since 2019 due to various injuries, so his inability to find the plate consistently in his 2023 debut is at least a little concerning. The 27-year-old's next turn lines up for a series next weekend in Milwaukee.

Flaherty allowed two runs on nine hits and a walk while striking out four over 4.2 innings in Tuesday's Grapefruit League game versus the Nationals.

Flaherty put a bit too much traffic on the bases, which shortened his outing. He threw 57 of 90 pitches for strikes, which suggests that he's entering 2023 fully healthy and ready for a starter's workload after an injury-plagued 2022. The right-hander should get one more spring start before lining up to pitch in the opening series versus the Blue Jays.

Flaherty (calf/illness) has been cleared to start Monday's Grapefruit League game against the Astros, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

Flaherty is expected to cover around three innings or 45-to-50 pitches before giving way to southpaw Steven Matz, who is likely to handle a similar workload in relief. A bout with calf discomfort and then flu-like symptoms resulted in Flaherty's spring debut being pushed back a few days, but the 27-year-old right-hander looks well on his way to being ready to go for Opening Day.

Flaherty (illness/calf) will not pitch Sunday against the Mets, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

Flaherty has been battling flu-like symptoms and some muscle irritation in his left calf, so the Cardinals will again delay his Grapefruit League debut. The hope is that these are rather minor issues, but the 27-year-old right-hander might soon fall behind. He logged only 36 innings (eight starts, one relief appearance) at the MLB level in 2022 because of shoulder trouble.

Flaherty is dealing with calf discomfort and flu-like symptoms, which may prevent him from pitching Sunday versus the Mets, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

Flaherty was initially scratched from Saturday's start versus the Nationals, and it's now possible he's pushed back again. The calf discomfort is the bigger concern here, as it's unclear how long it might keep him off the mound. He has logged time in simulated games this spring, but he has yet to make his Grapefruit League debut. Denton adds that it's believed to be a minor issue, but given Flaherty's lengthy injury history, the Cardinals will likely approach this situation with caution.

Flaherty had his Grapefruit League debut pushed back to Sunday due to lower half discomfort, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

Flaherty was originally scheduled to debut Saturday. If this remains a one-day delay, it should hardly be a blip, but the 27-year-old right-hander carries a ton of injury risk in general after logging only 154.2 total major-league innings for the Cardinals between 2020-2022. He tossed just 36 frames for St. Louis last year.

Flaherty signed a one-year, $5.4 million contract with the Cardinals on Friday to avoid arbitration, Robert Murray of FanSided.com reports.

Flaherty was in his final year of arbitration eligibility. He'll hope to remain healthy in his walk year after being limited to just 114.1 innings over the last two seasons because of oblique and shoulder issues. Flaherty represents a risky mid- to late-round pick in fantasy leagues for 2023 but one with obvious upside.

Flaherty struck out one and allowed a hit in one relief inning in an 8-7 extra-inning win Tuesday in Pittsburgh. He did not factor into the decision.

Flaherty was expected to throw multiple innings and roughly 45 pitches Tuesday but ended up tossing just 19 pitches in his one frame. Since returning from a shoulder injury at the beginning of September, he has a 3.86 ERA, 1.46 WHIP and 27:13 K:BB in 28 innings across six appearances. He is likely to get the start in Game 3 of the NL Wild Card series if that game is necessary.

Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol said that Flaherty is likely to throw roughly 45 pitches in a relief appearance Tuesday against the Pirates, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

Since Flaherty's most recent start came Friday, he would have lined up to start Wednesday's regular-season finale on his typical four days' rest, but the Cardinals prefer to use him Tuesday to give him some additional time off before St. Louis begins its wild-card series this weekend. Even though he'll be pitching in relief Tuesday for just the fourth time in his career, Flaherty may still be in good position to come away with a win for fantasy managers. Dakota Hudson is scheduled to start but isn't expected to work deep into the contest, which could put Flaherty in line to appear in the critical middle innings when the outcome of the game is more likely to be decided.

Flaherty (2-1) gave up one earned run on four hits and two walks while striking out six over six innings to earn the win in a 2-1 victory over the Pirates on Friday.

Flaherty made his best start of the season by holding the Pirates lineup to one run which scored on a bunt single by the speedy Ji Hwan Bae. Flaherty threw 95 pitches and has shown that he can handle a normal workload after missing most of the season due to a shoulder injury. The 26-year-old right-hander demonstrated a high ceiling in 2019 when he posted a superb 2.75 ERA and 0.97 WHIP over 196.1 innings. Depending on how the Cardinals decide to structure their rotation in the playoffs, Flaherty may take the mound in a rematch against the Pirates in Pittsburgh on Wednesday.

Flaherty (1-1) picked up the victory Thursday in San Diego, striking out nine in six innings while allowing three runs (two earned) on four hits and four walks.

In St. Louis' 141st game of the season, Flaherty picked up his first victory. It was his first time pitching more than five innings this season and his nine punch outs were a season high. In four starts since returning from a shoulder injury, he's compiled a 4.29 ERA, 1.57 WHIP and 20:11 K:BB in 21 innings. His next start will likely be in the middle of next week in Milwaukee.

Flaherty allowed four runs on six hits, two walks and two hit batsman while striking out five over five innings versus the Reds on Friday. He did not factor in the decision.

Flaherty was able to avoid yielding a home run for the second time in three starts since returning from a shoulder injury. It still wasn't a sharp start, and he's now allowed 18 hits and seven walks while plunking three batters in that span. For the season, he has a 5.09 ERA, 1.83 WHIP and 17:16 K:BB through 23 innings across six starts. He's lined up for a road start in San Diego next week.

Flaherty allowed three runs on six hits and four walks while failing to record a strikeout in five innings in a no-decision versus the Pirates on Saturday.

Flaherty struggled with both control and command, which saw him issue multiple walks for the fourth time in five outings. He also gave up multiple home runs -- a solo shot to Rodolfo Castro and a two-run blast to Jack Suwinski -- in this contest. Flaherty threw 46 of 87 pitches for strikes, so it appears he is operating on nearly a normal workload after throwing 91 pitches in his return from the injured list Monday. The right-hander has struggled to a 4.50 ERA, 1.89 WHIP and 12:14 K:BB through 18 innings as he tries to get back up to speed in the majors. His next outing is projected to be a home start versus the Reds next week.

Flaherty (0-1) allowed one run on six hits and a walk over five innings Monday, striking out five and taking a loss against Washington.

Flaherty made his first MLB appearance since June 26 and looked solid. He fired 59 of 91 pitches for strikes, including 14 whiffs. Unfortunately for him, the Cardinals were shut out, resulting in a loss on his record. Flaherty has been limited to just 13 innings this season due to injuries but it looks like he'll be healthy enough to make an impact down the stretch for both the Cardinals and fantasy managers. He'll carry a 4.15 ERA into his projected start in Pittsburgh this weekend.

The Cardinals reinstated Flaherty (shoulder) from the 60-day injured list ahead of his scheduled start Monday against the Nationals, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports.

He'll be making his fourth start of the season with the big club and his first since June 26 after being shut down for just over two months following a setback with his right shoulder. After building up to 6.2 innings over the course of five rehab starts between Double-A Springfield and Triple-A Memphis, Flaherty looks like he'll be ready to handle a normal starter's workload as he steps back into St. Louis' rotation. Though Flaherty has been a major disappointment for those who invested in him on draft day, he still has a chance to salvage something this season and should be a strong fantasy option in nearly every league. He lines up for two starts this week against two sub-.500 teams, as he's expected to make his next turn this weekend in Pittsburgh.

Flaherty (shoulder) will be activated off the injured list to start Monday against the Nationals, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Flaherty looked like he had a shot to return last week, but the Cardinals elected to have him go through one more rehab start Wednesday for Triple-A Memphis, in which he struck out nine while allowing three runs in 6.2 innings. That caution stands in stark contrast to the team's approach earlier in the year, when Flaherty returned from the injured list earlier than expected but made just three ineffective starts before aggravating his injury. His return will bump Dakota Hudson to the bullpen for now.

Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol said Flaherty will make a fifth rehab start Wednesday for Triple-A Memphis, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports.

Though Flaherty appeared poised to return from the 60-day injured list during the upcoming week after covering 5.1 innings and tossing 85 pitches in his most recent rehab start Friday, the Cardinals' brass determined that the right-hander would benefit from having one final tune-up outing in the minors. Assuming Flaherty escapes Wednesday's start unscathed, Marmol said that the 26-year-old will likely make his return to the big-league rotation Sept. 5 against the Nationals. If the Cardinals elect to maintain a five-man rotation upon Flaherty's return, Dakota Hudson would likely be the starter most at risk of moving to the bullpen.

Flaherty (shoulder) allowed a run on four hits and three walks while striking out three over 5.1 innings versus Triple-A Charlotte on Friday.

Flaherty had some command problems, throwing two wild pitches, but he was otherwise effective while earning his first win in four rehab starts. He threw 50 of 85 pitches for strikes in the outing. Per Katie Woo of The Athletic, Flaherty's recovery from this start will determine if his next outing is in the minors or with the Cardinals. Barring a setback, he could be available to pitch as soon as Wednesday, and his pitch count from Friday's start suggests he won't face much of a workload limitation once he's activated from the injured list.

Flaherty (shoulder) struck out seven and allowed an earned run on four hits and one walk over four innings Sunday in his rehab start with Double-A Springfield.

Flaherty tossed 66 pitches (41 strikes) and generally looked good in the third start of his rehab assignment and his second in a row at Double-A. According to John Denton of MLB.com, Flaherty is on track to return to Triple-A Memphis on Friday for what should be his final rehab start, with the right-hander expected to target around 90 pitches in the outing. If he comes out of that start setback-free, Flaherty would likely be on track to come off the 60-day injured list and rejoin the big-league rotation Aug. 31 in Cincinnati or Sept. 2 at home against the Cubs.

Flaherty (shoulder) will make his next rehab start Sunday with Double-A Springfield, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

The right-hander threw 52 pitches over three scoreless innings during Tuesday's rehab outing with Springfield, and he'll remain with the affiliate for his next start. If Flaherty requires another rehab start after Sunday it would put him on track for an activation at the start of September.

Flaherty (shoulder) allowed two hits and a walk while striking out four over three scoreless innings in his rehab start for Double-A Springfield on Tuesday.

Flaherty threw 34 of 52 pitches for strikes in the outing, which was a vast improvement over his appearance with Triple-A Memphis last week. It's likely the right-hander will need one more rehab appearance before activation, which should allow him to build up his pitch count to 60-65, though he may still have workload restrictions upon activation from the injured list.

Flaherty (shoulder) is scheduled to make the second appearance of his minor-league rehab assignment Tuesday with Double-A Springfield.

Flaherty will be looking for better results Tuesday after he was roughed up for four runs (three earned) on four hits over one inning in his initial rehab start last Thursday with Triple-A Memphis. On a more positive note, Flaherty struck out two and issued no walks while tossing 35 pitches, so he could bring up his pitch count to around 50 on Tuesday. Flaherty will likely require at least one more rehab start beyond Tuesday's outing before potentially making his return from the 60-day injured list.

Flaherty (shoulder) will begin a rehab assignment Wednesday with Triple-A Memphis, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

Flaherty is expected to throw 30-to-35 pitches Wednesday in his first rehab outing and will ramp up his workload in subsequent appearances. The 26-year-old began the season on the IL with a shoulder strain and made only three starts in June before returning to the shelf. Assuming Flaherty avoids any further setbacks, he should rejoin the Cardinals' rotation in late August or early September.

Flaherty (shoulder) will begin a minor-league rehab assignment soon, John Denton of MLB.com reports. "We're super encouraged with where he's at," manager Oliver Marmol said.

The skipper confirmed that Flaherty will ultimately return to St. Louis in a starter's role, and that the right-hander will head out to a minor-league affiliate soon. Flaherty will need to make it through a few rehab appearances unscathed, but if he's anything close to his normal self, he will need to be rostered across all fantasy leagues for the final month-plus.

Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol said that Flaherty (shoulder) will throw a bullpen session in St. Louis this weekend and could be cleared to begin a minor-league rehab assignment as soon as next week, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

Flaherty was shut down with the strained right shoulder June 27 and was transferred to the 60-day injured list a couple weeks later, but Marmol said Thursday that he remains hopeful the Cardinals ace can return when first eligible in the final week of August. Before the Cardinals map out a rehab assignment that will likely consist of at least two starts in the minors, Flaherty will first after to escape his upcoming bullpen session without any setbacks. Since Flaherty and Steven Matz (knee) are both weeks away from potential returns, the Cardinals made addressing their rotation depth a priority ahead of Tuesday's trade deadline and ultimately swung deals with the Pirates and Yankees to acquire Jose Quintana and Jordan Montgomery, respectively.

Flaherty (shoulder) recently threw a light side session, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports.

Flaherty has been on the injured list with a right shoulder strain in late June and isn't eligible to return until late August after he was transferred to the 60-day IL. However, the Cardinals hope that the right-hander will be able to rejoin the team soon to continue his rehab process with the major-league training staff.

The Cardinals transferred Flaherty (shoulder) from the 10-day injured list to the 60-day IL on Monday.

When Flaherty was moved back to the IL on July 27 after experiencing a setback with his right shoulder, the Cardinals had been keeping his timeline for a return open-ended. The decision to move him to the 60-day IL, however, likely indicates that Flaherty hadn't progressed as quickly as the Cardinals hoped in the two weeks since he was shut down. With Flaherty now on the 60-day IL for the second time this season and ineligible to return until late August, fantasy managers in redraft leagues could be justified in dropping him for a healthier option rather than waiting it out for the next six weeks (or longer).

Flaherty (shoulder) won't throw for at least two or three weeks, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

Flaherty missed over two months to start the season with a shoulder injury and returned to the injured list after returning for just three poor starts. His second absence won't be a brief one, as he'll be completely shut down for two weeks before being re-evaluated. He'll still need to build back up at that point, so it will be quite some time before he's back on a big-league mound.

Flaherty was placed on the 15-day injured list with a right shoulder strain Monday.

Flaherty didn't make his season debut until mid-June due to a shoulder injury which first appeared back in mid-March. He made just three short and ineffective starts, posting a 5.63 ERA, 2.12 WHIP and 6:9 K:BB in eight innings, and he'll now head right back to the injured list with renewed shoulder troubles. He'll be eligible to return shortly before the All-Star break, but a minimum-length stay seems unlikely given the way his season has gone thus far.

Flaherty was removed from Sunday's start against the Cubs with right shoulder stiffness, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports.

Flaherty needed 49 pitches to get through two scoreless innings, and the Cardinals announced the injury as soon as he was removed from the contest. The 26-year-old missed the first two and a half months of the campaign due to shoulder inflammation, and he's now dealing with shoulder stiffness in only his third start. The severity of the injury this time around remains unclear, but it wouldn't be surprising if the right-handed ended up back on the injured list.

Flaherty allowed two runs on three hits and five walks while striking out one in three innings. He did not factor into the decision in a 6-2 victory in Milwaukee.

Facing a 75-pitch limit, the Cardinals and Flaherty hoped he could pitch further into the game than the third inning. However, the righty threw more balls than strikes and was pulled after 71 pitches. He's allowed two earned runs and three hits in three innings in both of his starts since returning from a shoulder injury that cost him the first two months of the season.

Flaherty is expected to target around 75 pitches for his second start of the season Tuesday in Milwaukee, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports.

The Cardinals' choice to activate Flaherty back from the 60-day injured list last week sped up his season debut, but he wasn't able to get properly ramped up for a starting role after forgoing a third rehab outing in the minors. Flaherty was thus capped at three innings and 60 pitches in his 2022 debut June 15 against the Pirates, so he'll need at least one more start to get fully stretched out. He's not expected to face any limitations for his third start of the season, which is set to come Sunday in St. Louis against the Cubs.

Flaherty (shoulder) allowed four runs (two earned) on three hits and two walks three strikeouts in three innings, taking a no-decision versus the Pirates on Wednesday. He also hit a batter.

Flaherty wasn't great in his season debut after missing over two months with shoulder inflammation. The Pirates got two runs in each of the first two innings before the right-hander turned in a clean third. He stuck to his pitch count, throwing 37 of 60 pitches for strikes. It may take a few more turns for Flaherty to build up to a regular workload after the long absence. He had a 3.22 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 85:26 K:BB across 78.1 innings last year. He's expected to make his second start of the season next week in Milwaukee.

Flaherty (shoulder) was reinstated from the 60-day injured list ahead of Wednesday's start against the Pirates.

Flaherty missed the first two and a half months of the regular season due to shoulder inflammation, but he'll make his season debut at home against the Pirates in Wednesday's series finale. The right-hander was effective over his two rehab appearances, posting a 1.29 ERA and 0.14 WHIP in seven innings. However, he tossed just 58 pitches during his outing at Triple-A Memphis and will be limited to approximately 60 pitches during his return to major-league action Wednesday.

Flaherty (shoulder) will start Wednesday's game against the Pirates, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

Flaherty has been out all season while recovering from shoulder inflammation. He's made just two rehab starts and reached a modest 58 pitches in his latest one, so previous reports unsurprisingly indicated that he'd need one outing in the minors before returning from the injured list. The Cardinals have evidently changed plans, swayed either by the scramble caused by their Tuesday doubleheader or by the fact that Flaherty has been so dominant (seven innings with nine strikeouts and just a single baserunner) in his rehab appearances. Expect Flaherty to be limited to something close to 75 pitches in his season debut, but the Cardinals are clearly comfortable with those pitches being thrown at the major-league level.

Flaherty (shoulder) will make a third rehab start Wednesday, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports.

Flaherty has been exceptional in his two rehab starts to date, but he threw only 58 pitches in his second outing Friday, and the Cardinals want to build him up further before adding him back to the roster. If all goes well in his next outing, though, there's a chance his next one could come in the big leagues.

Flaherty (shoulder) is scheduled to make his second rehab start Friday with Triple-A Memphis, the Associated Press reports.

Flaherty will be returning to the mound on four days' rest and looking to up his pitch count after he struck out three over three perfect innings in his 2022 debut Sunday with Double-A Springfield. Since Flaherty needed only 30 pitches to record his nine outs, he'll likely need at least two more rehab outings to get stretched out to around 70-to-80 pitches. Barring any setbacks in his recovery from the shoulder issue, Flaherty tentatively lines up to return from the 60-day injured list at some point in the second half of June.

Flaherty (shoulder) struck out three over three perfect innings Sunday in his first rehab start at Double-A Springfield.

Pitching for the first time this season at either the major- or minor-league level, Flaherty needed only 30 pitches to retire nine batters and threw 21 strikes. The 26-year-old will likely require multiple rehab outings before the Cardinals bring him back from the 60-day injured list, as he'll presumably need to build up to around 75 pitches prior to re-entering St. Louis' rotation.

Flaherty (shoulder) will make his first rehab start with Double-A Springfield on Sunday.

He has been throwing live batting practice sessions with his teammates, building up to 40-to-50 pitches most recently. Flaherty will likely require multiple rehab starts before joining the big-league rotation.

Flaherty (shoulder) is expected to report to Double-A Springfield next week to start a rehab assignment, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

The right-hander has pitched against live hitters multiple times over the past week, and he's now poised to begin a rehab assignment. Flaherty threw about 40-to-50 pitches in his last session and should continue ramping up his workload from there. Given he's been sidelined for the first two months of the season with a right shoulder injury, the 26-year-old will likely require multiple starts in the minors before making his 2022 debut for St. Louis.

Flaherty (shoulder) faced teammates Lars Nootbaar and Andrew Knizner on Tuesday in a two-inning live batting practice session, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

The live batting practice session was the second one for Flaherty since he picked up the right shoulder injury in spring training. He threw somewhere between 40 and 50 pitches Tuesday but didn't appear to be satisfied with how he commanded his throws, according to John Denton of MLB.com. On a more positive note, Katie Woo of The Athletic relays that Flaherty said he felt better physically following the workout than he has at any point over the past calendar year, so his main focus at this stage may just be ramping up rather than strengthening his shoulder. The Cardinals have yet to announce the next step for Flaherty, but he could be send out for the first of what's likely to be at least two minor-league rehab appearances or simulated games before he returns from the 60-day injured list.

Flaherty (shoulder) is scheduled to face live hitters Wednesday, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports.

Flaherty will repeat the activity he most recently performed last Thursday, though he'll presumably increase his workload in the upcoming throwing session after tossing 25 pitches his last time out. If Flaherty's shoulder checks out fine following Wednesday's live batting practice session, he could head out on a minor-league rehab assignment early next week.

Flaherty (shoulder) will face live hitters Thursday, Jim Hayes of Bally Sports Midwest reports.

Flaherty began throwing bullpen sessions in early May, and he's now been cleared to face hitters after being transferred to the 60-day injured list last week. The right-hander isn't eligible to be activated by the Cardinals until early June, but it seems like he's trending toward a minor-league rehab assignment.

Flaherty (shoulder) was transferred to the 60-day injured list Thursday, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Flaherty has been sidelined since the start of the regular season due to a right shoulder injury, but he began throwing bullpen sessions early this month. Since the right-hander will likely require a rehab assignment before rejoining the major-league club, his shift to the 60-day injured list shouldn't impact his return timetable. Matthew Liberatore is slated to have his contract selected to make his major-league debut as the starter for Saturday's game against the Pirates.

Flaherty (shoulder) is scheduled to toss his second bullpen session Tuesday or Wednesday since resuming his throwing program in mid-April, Evan Frondorf of MLB.com reports.

Flaherty apparently checked out fine after completing a bullpen session of roughly 30 pitches over the weekend, so he'll get back on the mound again a few days later and presumably incorporate more of his pitches. Based on how Flaherty looks in that side session, the Cardinals will decide whether he's ready to advance to facing live hitters. Since Flaherty will at some point need at least two simulated games or minor-league rehab outings to build up his pitch count, he may be trending toward an early June return from the 10-day injured list.

Flaherty (shoulder) will throw a bullpen session Saturday and he will be allowed to throw all of his pitches, Sam Blum of The Athletic reports.

This will be his first bullpen session since being shut down in march and it's noteworthy that he won't just be limited to fastballs. Flaherty will likely have several more such sessions, possibly throwing live batting practice, before a rehab assignment would be on the table.

Flaherty (shoulder) advanced to throwing off flat ground from 240 feet Wednesday, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports.

Since he was cleared to begin a throwing program about two weeks ago, Flaherty hasn't hit any snags in his recovery from right shoulder inflammation. He could be days away from stepping back on a mound for his first bullpen session, but since he was sidelined for all of spring training, Flaherty may need another month to fully build up for starting duty before he makes his return from the 10-day injured list.

Flaherty (shoulder) is throwing from approximately 120 feet Saturday, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

Flaherty has reported progress in his right shoulder recently, and he's now been able to throw off flat ground on back-to-back days. It's not yet clear when he'll be able to resume mound work, but the 26-year-old is encouraged with how the progress he's made in his rehab so far.

Flaherty (shoulder) played catch on flat ground ahead of Friday's game at Milwaukee, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Flaherty has recently been building up his arm and shoulder strength with plyometric exercises, and he's now been cleared to start a throwing program. The 26-year-old was shut down from throwing in mid-March after receiving a PRP injection to address inflammation in his right shoulder, so he'll likely require a significant buildup period before progressing to mound work.

Flaherty (shoulder) is working on building strength before beginning a throwing program, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

He did some outfield sprints Saturday and has also done plyometric exercises to build strength in his arm and shoulder. The next step would be a throwing program, but there is not a timetable for when that will begin.

The Cardinals placed Flaherty (shoulder) on the 10-day injured list Monday, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports.

Flaherty's absence is expected to extend into May, at which point he will likely revert from the 10-day IL to the 15-day IL. Since receiving a platelet-rich plasma injection March 18 to calm down the inflammation in his right shoulder, Flaherty has been cleared to participate in plyometric drills. He could begin a throwing program within the next few days, but he'll require multiple weeks to build up for starting duty after essentially missing all of spring training.

Manager Oliver Marmol said Saturday that Flaherty (shoulder) has begun plyometric drills to replicate his throwing motion, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

Flaherty is nearing the end of his two-week shutdown from throwing, and it's encouraging that he's been able to resume some activity with just under a week remaining until Opening Day. The right-hander will need some time to build back up after he received a PRP injection March 18, but he'll begin throwing program soon and will travel with the team once they return to St. Louis. It seems likely that Flaherty will require a stint on the injured list to begin the regular season, but his progress late in spring training has provided a reason for encouragement.

Flaherty (shoulder) signed a one-year, $5 million deal Tuesday, avoiding arbitration, Robert Murray of FanSided.com reports.

The deal settles one question for Flaherty, but more important question of his health remains unanswered. After battling oblique and shoulder strains for much of last season, he's already dealing with shoulder inflammation this season and is in the middle of a two-week shutdown period.

Flaherty received a PRP injection Friday to address a small tear in his right shoulder and will be shut down from throwing for at least two weeks, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

Flaherty went for a second opinion after undergoing an MRI on Wednesday and is now confirmed to be unavailable for the start of the season. The 26-year-old was limited to 78.1 innings last season due to oblique and shoulder strains, and he's now sidelined by another shoulder issue to begin 2022. Even if Flaherty is cleared to start a throwing program immediately after the two-week shutdown, he likely won't be available for at least the first month of the season as he'll need to build back up to a starter's workload.

Flaherty (shoulder) is getting a second opinion on his MRI, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

While an official diagnosis on Flaherty's shoulder troubles is not yet available, the latest news doesn't seem particularly good, as there wouldn't be a need for a second opinion if the righty's MRI was obviously clear. Even a minor delay is likely to cost him some time at the start of the season, but an extended absence could also be on the table.

Flaherty (shoulder) underwent an MRI on Wednesday, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

Flaherty was absent from Tuesday's team workout since he was having his right shoulder evaluated, and the Cardinals are hopeful that Flaherty's MRI will provide a diagnosis for the extent of his injury. Even if the issue is deemed to be minor, any potential delay in the right-hander's spring training workload could limit his availability to begin the regular season.

Flaherty didn't participate in Tuesday's team workout after he was sent in for a medical evaluation of his right shoulder, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports.

The results of Flaherty's tests aren't yet known, but any arm-related injury for a pitcher this close to Opening Day is obviously concerning. The Cardinals are hoping to gain more clarity on Flaherty's health situation in the next few days, but even if he's diagnosed with minor soreness, it could delay his throwing schedule enough to put his availability for the start of the season in jeopardy.

Flaherty allowed one hit and one walk with one strikeout through a scoreless inning of work in Wednesday's 4-0 loss to the Brewers.

For just the second time in his career, Flaherty made an appearance out of the bullpen Wednesday. The right-hander gave up a double to Lorenzo Cain and a walk to Jackie Bradley but did not allow a run. The Cardinals would love to have the 2019 version of Flaherty available to start a playoff game or two, but the oblique and shoulder injuries that the 25-year-old has suffered this season leave his role undetermined as St. Louis eyes up an October run.

Manager Mike Shildt said that Flaherty will be available out of the bullpen during Tuesday's game against the Brewers, Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports.

Flaherty allowed two runs in just one-third of an inning while serving as the opener in his return to the mound Friday. While he'll be available out of the bullpen beginning Tuesday, the skipper emphasized that his role continues to be a fluid situation. With that in mind, it still seems possible that Flaherty will be able to build up to start a game in the postseason should the opportunity present itself.

Flaherty allowed two runs on two hits and a walk while striking out a batter over a third of an inning Friday against the Cubs. He did not factor into the decision.

Flaherty's return to action Friday certainly didn't go as planned. Although he wasn't expected to go very deep, the team was at least hoping he could cover a few innings as he wasn't able to build up to a full starter's workload during his rehab. He threw a total of 19 pitches, which included a strikeout against Rafael Ortega. Following that strikeout, Flaherty allowed a base hit to Frank Schwindel and then a two-run shot to Patrick Wisdom. He walked Ian Happ next and then was pulled for Dakota Hudson. It was certainly not the outing Flaherty envisioned but he's at least getting more comfortable in case he has to pitch in the playoffs. The 25-year-old has a 3.30 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 82:25 K:BB over 76.1 innings this season and lines up for one final tune-up against the Cubs again next week.

Flaherty (shoulder) was reinstated from the 10-day injured list Friday.

Flaherty spent exactly a month on the injured list, but he'll return to the mound to start the second game of Friday's doubleheader against the Cubs. However, the right-hander will presumably be on a pitch count in Friday's outing since he didn't have time to build up to a full starter's workload prior to his activation.

Flaherty (shoulder) will start Game 2 of Friday's doubleheader against the Cubs, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Flaherty will have been sidelined exactly a month when he retakes the mound Friday, and he'll face some workload limitations since he wasn't able to build up to a full starter's workload during his rehab work. The 25-year-old will act as a pseudo-opener and is unlikely to pitch deep enough to qualify for a potential victory.

Flaherty (shoulder) could be used in an opener role during one half of Friday's doubleheader against the Cubs, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

Flaherty doesn't have time to build up to a true starter's workload as he recovers from the shoulder strain that has kept him out for nearly a month, but he's nearly ready to return to pitch at least an inning or two. He threw a bullpen session Tuesday, which could wind up being his final session before he returns to game action.

Flaherty (shoulder) will throw another bullpen session Tuesday, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

It will be the righty's third bullpen since beginning his throwing program, so a progression to facing live hitters seems likely if he avoids any setbacks. Flaherty has little chance of returning in his normal, starting role this regular season, but his availability in any capacity could be huge for the Cardinals as they battle for the second wild card spot.

Flaherty (shoulder) will throw another bullpen session Saturday, after which the Cardinals will determine his next steps, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Flaherty has been out since late August with a shoulder strain. He threw 30 pitches, all of them fastballs, in a bullpen session Thursday and appears to be ramping up quickly as he attempts to make it back before the end of the season, though he isn't expected to return as a starter.

Flaherty (shoulder) is scheduled to throw a bullpen session Thursday, Alex Stumpf of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.

Flaherty suffered a shoulder strain in late August. He's been playing catch for the past week and will get back on a mound soon, but he isn't expected to have time to build back up to a starter's workload. He does still appear to have time to make a few appearances as a reliever if he avoids setbacks.

Flaherty (shoulder) is not expected to have time to return as a starter this season but still has time to return in a bullpen role, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Flaherty has been out for over two weeks with a strained right shoulder. He resumed playing catch Sunday and is expected to return to mound work next Thursday, but that's unlikely to leave him with enough time to build up to a starter's workload. How much the Cardinals elect to push Flaherty could depend in part on their playoff prospects. They currently sit three games behind the Padres for the second Wild Card spot.

Flaherty (shoulder) resumed playing catch Sunday, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Flaherty's first throwing session apparently went well, as he'll throw again from 90 feet Monday. The right-hander still has to ramp up his intensity before he's considered to return to game action, but he's made good progress in his recovery recently.

GM Michael Girsch said Sunday that Flaherty (shoulder) is expected to begin a throwing program in the next couple days, Jim Hayes of Bally Sports Midwest reports.

Flaherty landed on the injured list Aug. 25 with a strained right shoulder, and he's been cleared to resume throwing after a brief shutdown period. The right-hander is already eligible to return from the 10-day IL, but he's likely to remain sidelined for at least a couple more weeks.

Cardinals manager Mike Shildt said Flaherty is dealing with a strained right shoulder and will be placed on the 10-day injured list Wednesday, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

After missing two and a half months with an oblique strain, Flaherty returned from the IL on Aug. 13 and lasted three starts before going down with another injury. Fortunately for Flaherty, the tests he underwent after exiting Tuesday's loss to the Tigers revealed no structural damage to his shoulder, but the right-hander still looks like far from a safe bet to make it back from the IL in the minimum 10 days. According to Katie Woo of The Athletic, Flaherty had been nursing soreness in the shoulder heading into Tuesday's start and felt fine heading into the contest, only for the shoulder to stiffen up on him between the first and second inning. The Cardinals will likely keep him on a no-throw program for several days before re-evaluating him.

Flaherty was removed from Tuesday's start against the Tigers with right shoulder tightness, Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports.

Flaherty had decreased velocity during the third inning and was pulled from the contest after surrendering back-to-back homers to open the frame. It's only the right-hander's third start since missing two-plus months with an oblique strain, and his availability for the final month of the season is now in question after exiting with a new injury. He allowed four runs on four hits with three walks and a strikeout across two innings and is in line for the loss Tuesday.

Flaherty didn't factor into the decision Wednesday against the Brewers, allowing two earned runs on four hits and a walk over six innings. He struck out eight.

The right-hander turned in his second straight encouraging performance coming off his extended injured-list stint, with solo home runs by Avisail Garcia and Willy Adames accounting for the only two runs against him. Flaherty fired 56 of 92 pitches for strikes in the outing and has a 1.50 ERA and 0.58 WHIP across the 12 innings covering his last two turns. He'll look to keep up the strong work in a likely matchup against the Tigers next Tuesday.

Flaherty (9-1) allowed two hits over six shutout innings Friday, striking out five and earning a win over Kansas City.

Making his first appearance since May 31 after a lengthy stint on the injured list with an oblique issue, Flaherty didn't miss a beat. He gave up just two singles through six scoreless innings and never let a Royal reach scoring position. The 25-year-old righty now owns a 2.65 ERA and a 72:20 K:BB through 68 innings this season. Flaherty is projected to face the Brewers at home next week.

Flaherty (oblique) was activated from the 60-day injured list to start Friday's game against the Royals.

Flaherty has been sidelined since late May by an oblique strain, and he'll officially rejoin the Cardinals' starting rotation Friday in Kansas City. The 25-year-old built up to 75 pitches during his rehab assignment, so he shouldn't face significant limitations in his return to a major-league mound. Wade LeBlanc (elbow) was placed on the 10-day IL in a corresponding move.

Flaherty (oblique) is scheduled to return from the 60-day injured list to start Friday's game in Kansas City, Anne Rogers of MLB.com reports.

Manager Mike Shildt previously suggested Flaherty would be an option to make his return during the club's ongoing series in Pittsburgh to begin the week. After further deliberation, however, the Cardinals will reintegrate their ace into the pitching schedule this weekend in Kansas City, where he won't have to bat for himself with the designated hitter available. In his final rehab start Aug. 6 at Triple-A Memphis, Flaherty built up to 75 pitches and four innings, so he's not expected to face any significant restrictions with his workload when he makes his first appearance with the Cardinals since May 31.

Flaherty (oblique) is confident that he'll be able to rejoin the starting rotation during the upcoming series in Pittsburgh, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Manager Mike Shildt said Friday that Flaherty is considered "probable" for the upcoming series, and the right-hander echoed his confidence by saying that he felt healthy following his last rehab start. Flaherty tossed 75 pitches at Triple-A Memphis on Friday, but he was unable to get through six innings since he gave up three runs. He tentatively lines up to rejoin the rotation Wednesday in Pittsburgh.

Flaherty (oblique) will throw about 75 pitches in a rehab outing Friday and will be activated for his next start, barring any setbacks, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

After missing two months with a left oblique strain, Flaherty appears right around the corner from rejoining the Cardinals' rotation. The righty threw five innings combined in his first two rehab starts, allowing two earned runs and striking out eight batters.

Flaherty (oblique) allowed two earned runs on four hits, a walk and a wild pitch over three innings in Triple-A Memphis' loss to Gwinnett on Sunday. He struck out five.

Despite the fact the Stripers got to Flaherty for a couple of extra-base hits, the right-hander's start was encouraging overall. Flaherty worked up to 58 pitches overall (38 strikes), and if he's able to up his workload in his next rehab appearance without any setbacks, it's conceivable he makes a return early in the second half of August.

Flaherty (oblique) fired two scoreless innings in Triple-A Memphis' loss to Gwinnett on Tuesday, allowing a hit and recording three strikeouts.

As his line indicates, Flaherty passed his first rehab test with flying colors, throwing 21 of 31 pitches for strikes. The right-hander is likely two for at least two more appearances with the Redbirds, considering the Cardinals will likely want him built back up to the 70-to-75-pitch range before activation is considered.

Flaherty (oblique) will begin a rehab assignment Tuesday with Triple-A Memphis, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

Flaherty has been out since the end of May with a strained left oblique. He'll likely need multiple rehab outings given the length of his absence. If he makes just two rehab starts, he could be back late in the first week of August, but if he needs three, he'll likely return sometime in the second week of the month.

Manager Mike Shildt said Friday that Flaherty (oblique) could begin a rehab assignment within a week, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

Flaherty threw two bullpen sessions this week, and he's expected to throw another side session in the coming days. The right-hander's first rehab outing is expected to be a brief, one-inning appearance, but it's encouraging to see him close to facing live hitters.

Flaherty (oblique) threw his second bullpen session Thursday, Jim Hayes of Bally Sports Midwest reports.

Flaherty threw his second bullpen session within the last week, as he continues to progress back from a serious oblique strain. Manager Mike Shildt told reporters that Flaherty's next step will be facing live hitters, though he deferred providing further detail until Friday.

Flaherty (oblique) will throw one more bullpen session before facing live hitters, Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports.

The right-hander has been sidelined since late May with a strained left oblique, and he won't be eligible to be activated from the 60-day injured list until the start of August. Flaherty could advance straight to rehab games after the next bullpen session, and he'll likely need a handful of starts in the minors to ramp up before rejoining the Cardinals.

Flaherty (oblique) threw a bullpen session Friday, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Flaherty began a throwing program in mid-June, and he was able to resume mound work Friday. The right-hander is on the 60-day injured list and won't be eligible to return until at least the start of August due to an oblique strain, but his bullpen session represents a clear step forward in his recovery process.

The Cardinals transferred Flaherty (oblique) to the 60-day injured list Friday.

Despite recent optimism that Flaherty could return around the All-Star break, he'll now be sidelined until at least the start of August with his strained left oblique. A more specific timeline for the righty's return should become clear as he continues his throwing program in the coming weeks.

Cardinals manager Mike Shildt said Flaherty (oblique) resumed playing "very light catch" Wednesday, Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports.

Previous reports have suggested that Flaherty's left oblique tear could keep him on the shelf through the All-Star break and potentially early August, but the right-hander's ability to do some light throwing just over two weeks after landing on the injured list offers some hope of a more expedient return than expected. Shildt was careful to note that Flaherty is still in the early stages of his recovery process, and the Cardinals likely won't attempt to put a formal timeline on his return until he's cleared to face hitters. In any case, the fact that Flaherty isn't being shut down entirely at this stage can be taken as a positive sign.

Flaherty's oblique strain is expected to keep him out through the All-Star break, Jon Heyman of MLB Network reports.

Previous reports indicated that Flaherty's strain was a significant one but didn't come with a clear timeline. This latest report still doesn't come with an official timetable, but it's clear that Flaherty won't be back any time soon.

Manager Mike Shildt said Flaherty was placed on the 10-day injured list Tuesday with a "significant" oblique strain and will be sidelined "a while," Katie Woo of The Athletic reports.

The 25-year-old exited Monday's start against the Dodgers with tightness in his left side, and he'll now be unavailable for the foreseeable future. Flaherty is without a timeline for his return but figures to be sidelined through the All-Star break in mid-July, at minimum. Johan Oviedo was recalled from Triple-A Memphis in a corresponding move and should be in the mix to fill the open spot in the rotation.

Flaherty will undergo further testing on his left side Tuesday morning, Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports.

Flaherty exited his Monday start against the Dodgers after just five innings because of tightness in his left side. The Cardinals will take a closer look at the right-hander Tuesday in attempt to reach a conclusive diagnosis and possible timeline for a return. The 25-year-old is currently slated to start Saturday against the Reds.

Flaherty was removed from Monday's game against the Dodgers after five innings with left side tightness, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch of reports.

The right-handed ace struck out nine and allowed two runs on back-to-back, second-inning homers. He also walked a batter and hit another. It's unclear whether Flaherty is dealing with a substantial injury and if he'll require a trip to the injured list, but the Cardinals may need to look elsewhere for innings Saturday, when Flaherty is scheduled to make his next start.

Flaherty (8-1) allowed seven runs (three earned) on six hits and two walks while striking out three across 3.2 innings to take the loss Tuesday against the White Sox.

Flaherty escaped what could have been a horrendous line due to defensive lapses behind him. However, he did plenty to sink his own performance by allowing eight baserunners. Entering the contest, Flaherty had surrendered only six earned runs across his last five starts -- a span of 32 innings. Despite the poor outing, Flaherty has maintained a 2.84 ERA and 58:19 K:BB across 57 frames this season. He'll look to bounce back in his next start, currently projected to come Sunday at Arizona.

Flaherty (8-0) picked up the win in Wednesday's 8-5 victory over the Pirates, allowing two runs on four hits and four walks over six innings while striking out seven.

It was Flaherty's sixth straight quality start and seventh of the season, and the 25-year-old right-hander become only the second pitcher in Cardinals history to win eight of their first nine starts on a season, with the legendary Bob Gibson being the other hurler to accomplish the feat in 1965. On the year, Flaherty has a sparkling 2.53 ERA, 0.99 WHIP and 55:17 K:BB through 53.1 innings.

Flaherty (7-0) pitched six scoreless innings on four hits and two walks while striking out six, earning the win against the Brewers on Thursday.

Flaherty picked up his MLB-leading seventh win in his eighth start. The 25-year-old struggled on Opening Day, but he's been as good as anyone since then with a 1.47 ERA in his last 43 innings. He allowed just one home run in his last seven starts. The pitcher carries a 2.47 ERA, 0.95 WHIP and 48 strikeouts through 47.1 innings. His next start is Wednesday against the Pirates.

Flaherty (6-0) pitched seven scoreless innings on three hits and one walk while striking out six, earning the win Friday over the Rockies.

Flaherty contributed offensively and defensively to earn his MLB-leading sixth win Friday. The 25-year-old ace was lights-out, striking out six batters while allowing only four baserunners. In addition, he slammed his first career home run in the third inning off Austin Gomber. He carries a 2.83 ERA, 0.94 WHIP and 3.82 K/BB in 41.1 innings. He will get another good matchup against an injury-riddled Brewers' offense on Thursday.

Flaherty (5-0) picked up the win in Saturday's 12-5 drubbing of the Pirates, allowing three runs on six hits and two walks over six innings. He struck out nine.

The Cards handed Flaherty a 4-0 lead before he even set foot on the mound, which left the final outcome in little doubt, but the right-hander still had to be sharp and left the game after 104 pitches (65 strikes) with his team only up 5-3. Flaherty delivered his third straight quality start and fourth of the season, and he'll take a 3.41 ERA and 36:10 K:BB through 34.1 innings into his next outing.

Flaherty (4-0) yielded one run on three hits over seven innings Sunday, striking out six and earning a win over the Reds.

Flaherty allowed just two baserunners through six scoreless innings before giving up a leadoff homer to Jesse Winker in the seventh. It was his longest outing of the season and he picked his fourth consecutive victory. The 25-year-old lowered his season ERA to 3.18 through 28.1 innings. Flaherty will face the Pirates on the road next weekend.

Flaherty (3-0) picked up the win Monday, allowing five runs (two earned) on six hits and two walks over six innings in a 12-5 victory over the Nationals. He struck out five.

The Cards did all their scoring by the fifth inning, giving the right-hander a massive cushion to work with, and while he faded in the sixth and saw his pitch count creep up to 107 (63 strikes), a Nolan Arenado error kept Flaherty's quality start alive. He'll take a 3.80 ERA and 21:8 K:BB through 21.1 innings into his next outing, at home against the Reds on Sunday.

Flaherty (2-0) allowed one earned run on three hits and no walks while striking out six across five innings to earn the win Tuesday against the Nationals.

Flaherty received 14 runs of support from the Cardinals' offense, helping him cruise to his second win of the season. He did plenty of work on his own as well, generating 18 called strikes and nine swinging strikes across 96 total pitches. After getting roughed up by the Reds on Opening Day, Flaherty has allowed only one run across 11 innings in his next two starts. The only downside to Flaherty's performance to this point has been his inability to work deep into games, as he has surpassed five innings of work only once. Even so, he'll carry a 4.11 ERA and 16:6 K:BB into his fourth start of the season, currently projected to come Monday in a rematch at Washington.

Flaherty (1-0) allowed one hit and four walks while striking out six across six scoreless innings to earn the win Wednesday against the Marlins.

After surrendering six earned runs on Opening Day, Flaherty bounced back to hold the Marlins to just one hit. He did struggle a bit with his control, though two of the free passes came in the first frame. Flaherty also showed the ability to work deep into games, as he threw 101 total pitches. He'll look to build on this performance in his next outing, currently projected for Tuesday against Washington.

Flaherty gave up six runs on six hits and two walks while striking out four over 4.1 innings in a no-decision against the Reds on Thursday.

The Cardinals staked Flaherty to a six-run lead before he even took the mound yet he could not secure the Opening Day win for himself. Inefficiency and a couple long balls against Flaherty led to manager Mike Shildt turning to his bullpen in the fifth inning as Flaherty's pitch count ticked up into the 90s (94 pitches thrown). A road matchup in Miami next week looks like a great spot for Flaherty to get right, on paper anyway.

Flaherty, the Cardinals' Opening Day starter, allowed an unearned run on three hits over three innings in a Grapefruit League loss to the Marlins on Saturday. He struck out four.

The right-hander had already worked up to 90 pitches against MIami on Monday, so Saturday's outing was more of an interim tune-up designed to keep Flaherty's arm conditioned ahead of Opening Day. He worked up to 55 pitches, throwing 38 for strikes, wrapping up spring with his only scoreless effort in four trips to the mound.

Flaherty allowed four runs (three earned) on five hits, three walks and a wild pitch across 5.1 innings in a Grapefruit League loss to the Marlins on Monday. He struck out five.

Despite the uneven final line, Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports Flaherty came away from the outing satisfied, as the majority of his trouble was limited to a four-run fifth inning. Flaherty's fastball topped out at 95.5 mph and he was able to go beyond his projected pitch count, leaving him confident he's ready for Opening Day. "It feels like the season's here," Flaherty said. "It feels like the spring has gone real quick. I mean, I think we're out of here in a week, which is crazy to think about. But yeah, ready to go."

Flaherty, who's logged five innings of Grapefruit League action over two appearances, stretched out to 83 pitches in a simulated game Tuesday, Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports.

The right-hander has been hittable in both instances he's taken the mound against opposing squads, giving up a total of five earned runs on six hits over those five frames. That trend continued Tuesday in the form of friendly fire, as Silver relays Flaherty gave up a pair of home runs to Paul Goldschmidt and one to Paul DeJong in the sim game. However, Flaherty did at least up his workload ahead of an Opening Day start versus the Reds.

Flaherty allowed two earned runs on two hits and a walk while recording four strikeouts over four innings in a Grapefruit League loss to the Nationals on Wednesday.

Facing off against Max Scherzer, Flaherty gave a solid accounting of himself for the second time in less than a week against the Nationals after having faced part of their squad in a "B" game Friday. The right-hander now has strong back-to-back outings after a forgettable spring debut and was able to stretch out to 64 pitches in Wednesday's outing.

Flaherty impressed while throwing 50 pitches in a "B" game against the Astros on Friday, following a poor showing in his first Grapefruit League start, Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports. "Very favorable," manager Mike Shildt said. "Everything was a lot crisper. Fastball had some good life to it, getting it by guys. Slider on the plate more, breaking out of the hand better."

The right-hander hadn't pulled any punches when describing his performance in Sunday's Grapefruit League opener against the Nationals, labeling his performance that day as "horrible". Consequently, Flaherty's performance Friday amounted to a bit of a sigh of relief, even in the wake of what was just one poor outing. Shildt particularly praised Flaherty's ability to control counts much better than in his debut, when he'd retired just one of eight batters.

Flaherty, who threw just 17 of 39 pitches for strikes in his Grapefruit League debut Sunday against Washington, confirmed he wasn't experimenting with any new pitchers or mechanics during his outing and blamed himself for simply executing poorly, Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports. "Pitched horribly, set a horrible tone, but [Thomas] Parsons came in and did a really good job after me, and then Johnny Gant picked up from there," Flaherty said. "Bad way to set a tone for the team for spring, but the guys came

Flaherty labored through a 23-pitch first inning that started out positively enough with a strikeout but devolved into the right-hander allowing a single and two walks before the frame ended early due to his elevated pitch count. With the second inning even more nightmarish -- Flaherty surrendered three consecutive singles, uncorked two wild pitches and issued a walk before getting the hook -- his first taste of 2021 game action was undeniably disastrous. Making the poor showing all the more jarring was the fact Flaherty is considered the ace of the staff and was just designated the Opening Day starter, but he'll at least have plenty more opportunities to round into form over the next five weeks of Grapefruit League action.

Manager Mike Shildt announced Thursday that Flaherty would serve as the Cardinals' Opening Day starter April 1 in Cincinnati, Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports.

Flaherty will also get the ball for the Cardinals' Grapefruit League opener versus the Nationals, likely working two innings in his first outing of the spring. Though Flaherty endured a turbulent 2020 campaign that was included a prolonged shutdown due to the Cardinals' COVID-19 outbreak, the 25-year-old's standing as the staff ace never wavered. Even though his ERA rose to 4.91 over a small sample of 40.1 innings in 2020, Flaherty remained one of the top strikeout artists among starters, finishing with K/9 rate above 10.5 for the third straight season.

Flaherty won his arbitration case over the Cardinals on Saturday and will make $3.9 million in 2021, Robert Murray of FanSided.com reports.

Flaherty and the Cardinals were unable to reach an agreement without an arbiter, but the right-hander will earn a hefty raise following his hearing. Now that the case is behind him, the Cardinals' ace will shift his focus toward spring training as he attempts to bounce back in 2021 after recording a 4.91 ERA and 1.21 WHIP over 40.1 innings last season.

Flaherty allowed one run on six hits and two walks while striking out eight over six innings Friday as he was charged with the loss in Game 3 of the NL Wild Card Series against the Padres.

Flaherty sputtered at the end of the regular season as he allowed at least three runs in three of his final five starts. He was more effective Friday in the decisive Game 3 matchup against San Diego, but the Cardinals' offense was unable to generate any run production as the Padres used nine pitchers Friday. Flaherty recorded a 4.91 ERA and 1.21 WHIP over 40.1 innings during the shortened 2020 season.

Flaherty (4-3) took the loss during the first game of Friday's doubleheader against the Brewers, allowing three runs on four hits and four walks over five innings as the Cardinals fell 3-0. He struck out five.

The right-hander wasn't at his sharpest, throwing 57 of 95 pitches for strikes, but without any run support he had no margin for error. Flaherty likely won't pitch again in the regular season, although the Cards might still need to play a makeup doubleheader Monday against the Tigers if those games matter for the playoff race, leaving him with a disappointing 4.91 ERA, 1.21 WHIP and 49:16 K:BB through 40.1 innings.

Flaherty picked up the win Sunday against the Pirates, allowing one run on two hits and two walks across six innings. He struck out 11.

Flaherty was coming off his worst outing of the season, in which he allowed nine runs in just three innings pitched against the Brewers on Sep. 15. The right-hander was able to bounce back in a big way Sunday, tallying a season-high 11 punch outs while allowing just four baserunners. The 24-year-old has 44:12 K:BB to go along with a 4.84 ERA on the campaign and will look to finish the regular season on a high note when he takes the ball Friday against Milwaukee.

Flaherty (3-2) gave up nine runs on eight hits and two walks during the Cardinals' 18-3 loss on Tuesday. He struck out six.

In an odd outing, Flaherty matched his season-high with six strikeouts despite only recording nine outs. Simply punished for his mistakes, Flaherty was taken deep multiple times in a start for the first time in 2020. Tuesday also marked his first 2020 outing in which he gave up more than three runs. The ugly performance will balloon his marks, but Flaherty is amid a strong campaign and will take the mound against a bad Pittsburgh offense in his next start.

Flaherty (3-1) picked up the win in the first game of Thursday's doubleheader against the Tigers, giving up two runs on four hits and two walks over five innings. He struck out six.

The right-hander got staked to a 9-0 lead by the end of the third inning, allowing Flaherty to cruise to his first victory since Aug. 24. He tossed 95 pitches (63 strikes), and his only real mistake resulted in a two-run shot by Jeimer Candelario. Flaherty will take a 3.08 ERA and 27:8 K:BB through 26.1 innings into his next outing Tuesday in Milwaukee.

Flaherty (2-1) allowed three runs on four hits and two walks with four strikeouts over 2.2 innings in a loss to the Cubs on Friday.

Flaherty got into trouble in both the first and third innings, and Willson Contreras singles accounted for all three runs against him. The 25-year-old righty now has a 2.95 ERA, 0.98 WHIP and 21:6 K:BB across 21.1 innings this season. Flaherty still hasn't pitched more than five innings in each of his four starts since the Cardinals returned from their COVID-19 outbreak. He'll try to work deeper into his next start, currently projected for one of the games in Thursday's twin bill versus the Tigers.

Flaherty gave up one run on three hits and two walks over five innings during Saturday's 12-inning loss to Cleveland, He had five strikeouts and did not factor in the decision.

The right-hander surrendered a solo homer to Jose Ramirez during the opening frame, but he kept the Indians off the board over the next four frames. Flaherty upped his pitch count to 83 during Saturday's outing, so he appears to be nearing full clearance after being limited out of the gate from the Cardinals return to play after the COVID-19 outbreak. The 24-year-old has a 1.93 ERA, 0.80 WHIP and 17:4 K:BB through 18.2 innings and lines up to face the Cubs on the road next weekend.

Flaherty (2-0) picked up the win Monday against Kansas City, allowing one hit and striking out three in five scoreless innings.

After being limited to 1.2 innings and 41 pitches on Aug. 19, Flaherty was able to go five innings and pick up his second win Monday. He allowed a ground-rule double to Meibrys Viloria in the third inning, but kept the Royals off the bases besides that. Under normal circumstances, the right-hander would certainly have tossed more than five innings and 64 pitches, but he is still stretching his arm out after St. Louis' long lay off due to it's COVID-19 outbreak. Flaherty will look to go a little bit deeper into the game when he takes the ball Saturday against the Indians.

Flaherty gave up one run on one hit and two walks over 1.2 innings during Game 1 of Wednesday's doubleheader against the Cubs. He had three strikeouts and did not qualify for the decision.

The right-hander's first start since the Cardinals resumed play last weekend was a short one, as the team limited him to 41 pitches in his first game action since July 24. Flaherty should continue to get stretched out toward his usual workload, but it figures to take a few starts following the multi-week hiatus. The 24-year-old's next outing lines up for Monday versus the Royals.

Flaherty, who's slated to start the first game of Wednesday's doubleheader against the Cubs, threw a bullpen session Friday and will throw another early in the week, Anne Rogers of MLB.com reports.

The right-hander's first and most recent game action came Opening Day, July 24 against the Pirates, so Flaherty has undoubtedly been challenged to keep his arm calibrated correctly. The bullpen sessions are naturally one of the most important vehicles to accomplish that, and manager Mike Shildt acknowledged Saturday it's a challenge to walk the fine line between injury risk to top players, dealing with ongoing absences and fielding the best team possible. "Clearly, there's games to be won and competitions to be had, but it won't come at an expense to someone's health," Shildt said. "But someone has to pitch the innings. We do have the extra pitcher for the doubleheader. And we'll just continue to communicate. We've talked extensively with our group about just that."

Flaherty will start the first game of Wednesday's doubleheader against the Cubs, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

The Cardinals are the "road" team for the first game and the "home" team for the second game. This will line Flaherty up for a two-start week the following week.

Flaherty isn't expected to make his next start until Monday's series opener with the Cubs after general manager John Mozeliak didn't name the right-hander as one of the Cardinals' three starting pitchers for this weekend's series with the White Sox, Anne Rogers of MLB.com reports.

The Cardinals have received clearance from MLB to return to action Saturday, ending a 16-day hiatus that was caused by a team-wide COVID-19 outbreak. Though Flaherty wasn't among the players who tested positive, the Cardinals won't include their ace in the pitching schedule right away, as Mozeliak noted that the club will have Adam Wainwright start the front end of Saturday's doubleheader, while the other half of the twin bill is treated as a bullpen game. Dakota Hudson, meanwhile, will take the hill in the series finale with the White Sox on Sunday. The decision to hold Flaherty back isn't believed to be injury-related; instead, the Cardinals presumably just prefer to have him make a start against a tough division rival in the Cubs, who sport an MLB-best 13-3 record heading into Friday's action.

Flaherty won't start early this week after the Cardinals' upcoming series against the Pirates was postponed due to COVID-9-related concerns, Buster Olney of ESPN reports.

Flaherty had been scheduled to start the series opener against Pittsburgh, but the Cardinals' season will be put on hold for at least three more games as the team deals with a COVID-19 outbreak. The earliest that the team could resume action is in a doubleheader on the road Thursday against the Tigers. The team hasn't made any announcements regarding the plans for the rotation once games resume, but Flaherty could presumably be one of the Cardinals' first starters to take the mound.

Flaherty won't start Monday against the Pirates as the game was postponed due to the Cardinals' COVID-19 outbreak, Jeff Passan of ESPN.com reports.

It was reported earlier in the day the Cardinals wouldn't be allowed to practice together for at least three days, so it's not much of a surprise Monday's series opener won't be played. The remaining two games of the series aren't overly likely to go on as scheduled, and that decision could be made Sunday. The Cardinals may not see the field again until Thursday against the Tigers, which would be over two weeks since their previous game.

The date of Flaherty's start remains unclear, as there appears to be a significant chance the Cardinals' upcoming series against the Pirates will be canceled, Mark Saxon of The Athletic reports.

When the Marlins had the first COVID-19 outbreak of the year, they wound up shut down for eight days. If the Cardinals followed a similar schedule, they would have already returned to play Friday, but players have continued to test positive, so their season continues to hang in the balance. The team isn't expected to practice together for at least three days, and they may not get the chance to play again until Thursday in Detroit, giving them more than two full weeks without any game action.

Manager Mike Shildt announced Thursday that Flaherty will make his next start either Sunday against the Cubs or Monday against the Pirates, Rob Rains of StLSportsPage.com reports.

With the Cardinals set to come off of a seven-day layoff due to a COVID-19 outbreak, the team has opted to get Flaherty another side session under his belt before starting a game for the first time in over two weeks. St. Louis will go with Ponce de Leon in Friday's opener against the Cubs and Flaherty will make his second start of the campaign on either Sunday or Monday.

Flaherty won't make his scheduled start during Sunday's doubleheader at Milwaukee since the games were postponed due to multiple positive tests for COVID-19, Jeff Passan of ESPN.com reports.

The 24-year-old was originally set to take the mound in Friday's series opener, but the numerous positive tests produced by St. Louis ended up postponing the weekend series in its entirety. Flaherty will presumably receive the starting nod for the Cardinals' next game, which is currently scheduled for Monday at the Tigers.

Flaherty won't make his scheduled start Saturday against the Brewers since the Cardinals produced multiple positive tests for COVID-19, Jon Heyman of MLB Network reports.

After Friday's contest was postponed for precautionary means, the Brewers and Cardinals won't suit up Saturday as a result of several positive COVID-19 tests within the St. Louis organization. Sunday's doubleheader hasn't officially been called off, but it's unclear whether the teams will be able to play. If the Cardinals are able to resume play in the near future, Flaherty could line up to pitch Sunday or Monday, but no official announcements have been made.

Flaherty won't make his scheduled start Friday in Milwaukee due to one of the teams producing a positive test for COVID-19, Jon Heyman of MLB Network reports.

The 25-year-old was scheduled to make his second start of the season against the Brewers, but the Cardinals are instead isolating themselves at the team hotel, according to Joel Sherman of the New York Post. The Cardinals apparently had multiple positive tests, per Heyman, which threatens the full three-game series in Milwaukee and beyond.

Flaherty (1-0) earned the victory over Pittsburgh on Friday, completing seven innings and giving up two runs on six hits and no walks while striking out six.

Flaherty looked every bit an ace on Opening Day, throwing 62 of 89 pitches for strikes in an efficient seven innings. He held the Pirates scoreless until the seventh frame and yielded only six singles on the night. The right-hander broke through with a dominant second half last season and will look to cement his place as one of the game's elite hurlers in the abbreviated 2020 campaign. His next test will come at Milwaukee on the final day of July.

Flaherty, who'll start Opening Day against the Rangers, allowed three earned runs while recording 10 outs across 92 pitches in an intrasquad scrimmage Sunday, Anne Rogers of MLB.com reports.

The right-hander faced plenty of regulars and gave up a first-inning home run to Matt Carpenter, a leadoff triple in the second to Lane Thomas and a two-run double to Paul DeJong as far as extra-base hits. Flaherty also struggled with control, getting just 52 of his offerings into the strike zone. Despite the uneven performance from his ace, manager Mike Shildt didn't convey concern following the game, instead focusing on the progress the team's hitters seem to be making in getting their timing down ahead of the start of the season.

Manager Mike Shildt announced Flaherty as his Opening Day starter for the July 24 opener against the Pirates, FOX Sports Midwest reports.

The 24-year-old will unsurprisingly remain the Cardinals' top option for Opening Day despite the multi-month shutdown. Flaherty flashed his ace potential in 2019 with a 2.75 ERA, 0.97 WHIP and 231:55 K:BB over 196.1 innings, finishing fourth in NL Cy Young voting thanks to a dominant second half (0.91 ERA and .142 BAA).

Flaherty allowed one run on two hits and two walks over four innings while striking out two in Thursday night's intrasquad game at Busch Stadium, Anne Rogers of MLB.com reports.

The staff ace threw 43 pitches overall, and he got out of a particularly tight jam in the third after loading the bases with a walk to Justin Williams and back-to-back singles from Edmundo Sosa and Dexter Fowler. Flaherty ultimately only allowed one run on an RBI fielder's choice by Tommy Edman and was able to get in a solid amount of work, lending credence to the notion he could be ready for at least a five-inning workload in a July 24 Opening Day start against the Pirates.

Flaherty received praise for his work during the Cardinals' first summer camp workout at Busch Stadium on Friday, Rick Hummel of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

The staff ace and projected Opening Day starter wasted no time getting back into the thick of things, facing several of his teammates in live batting practice. Pitching coach Mike Maddux described Flaherty as being in mid-season form to manager Mike Shildt, certainly an encouraging sign given the right-hander's importance to the team's fortunes.

Flaherty is tabbed as a potential ace of the Cardinals' staff by team beat writer Anne Rogers, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports.

The right-hander was arguably already worthy of the title during the second half of last season, during which he posted an 0.91 ERA, .142 BAA and 124:23 K:BB across 99.1 post-All-Star-break frames. Flaherty ultimately finished fourth in NL Cy Young voting and he was set for an Opening Day start before play was suspended. Rogers notes the one missing component for Flaherty ascending to the next level is consistency, as the 24-year-old posted an elevated 4.64 ERA in the first half of the 2019 campaign. As such, Flaherty emphasized through the offseason and spring training that staying strong from start to finish was his main focus coming into 2020, and he'll still look to make good on that vow during what will almost certainly be an abbreviated season.

Flaherty is likely to throw around 45 pitches in twice-a-week bullpen sessions while Grapefruit League play remains suspended, Anne Rogers of MLB.com reports.

Rogers reports manager Mike Shildt and his staff are in the process of setting up a maintenance program for the team's starting pitchers to follow during the suspension of spring training. The templates will be individualized to an extent for each player, but Flaherty's is likely to fall approximately within those guidelines. The right-hander will open the 2020 season as the ace of the staff and had already worked up to 68 pitches in his most recent start Tuesday, his fourth in Grapefruit League action.

Flaherty fired three scoreless innings in a Grapefruit League win over the Red Sox on Tuesday, allowing three hits and two walks while recording five strikeouts.

The right-hander lowered his spring ERA to 3.09 in what was his fourth start of Grapefruit League play, but Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports the right-hander was actually frustrated with allowing five runners to reach base during the 68-pitch outing. The biggest source of Flaherty's ire was the second inning, when he allowed two singles and a walk before snuffing out the threat with an impressive strikeout of Andrew Benintendi. Flaherty is likely to push his pitch count into 75-80 range at minimum in his next spring start, projected for next Sunday or Monday if he remains on his normal schedule.

Flaherty opened Saturday's 2-0 Grapefruit League win over the Mets and fired two scoreless innings during which he allowed two hits and recorded three strikeouts.

Just named the Opening Day starter, Flaherty put on a performance worthy of the honor against a Mets lineup with several regulars. The right-hander worked around a one-out J.D. Davis double in the first with strikeouts of Brandon Nimmo and Dominic Smith before getting through a relatively uneventful second inning during which he only yielded a single to Luis Guillorme. Flaherty sill build his innings/pitch count up over subsequent spring outings ahead of his aforementioned March 26 date with the Reds to kick off the 2020 regular season.

Flaherty was confirmed as the starter for Opening Day on Saturday, Anne Rogers of MLB.com reports.

Manager Mike Shildt declined to confirm Flaherty as the starter for Opening Day on Wednesday, but he gave the confirmation Saturday ahead of his scheduled start in the Grapefruit League opener. The 24-year-old was dominant last season, logging a 2.75 ERA and 0.97 WHIP over 196.1 innings in 2019.

Flaherty will start Saturday's Grapefruit League opener against the Mets and likely work two innings or up to 30 pitches, Anne Rogers of MLB.com reports.

The right-hander unsurprisingly will get the call after finishing the 2019 season in dominant fashion, generating an 0.91 ERA over 15 post-All-Star-break starts. Flaherty is also the likely Opening Day starter against the Reds on March 26, although manager Mike Shildt wouldn't confirm as much when asked Wednesday.