Steve Webb
LOS ANGELES, CA — Dodgers starting pitcher Jack Flaherty reflected on his performance following a hard-fought victory, where he allowed three earned runs over five innings, keeping the team within reach before they pulled off a late win. Flaherty admitted it wasn’t his sharpest outing but focused on what allowed him to battle through challenging moments.
Flaherty said. “I wasn’t trying to be perfect early, but I lost command a bit in the second inning. It comes down to making pitches. They put some good swings on the ball, and it’s a tough team. But you just have to find a way to put up zeros.”
Despite surrendering the lead after the Dodgers went ahead, Flaherty emphasized the importance of shutting down the opposing team after his offense gave him a lead. “The frustrating part is getting the lead and not putting up a shutdown inning. It’s one of the biggest things, keeping momentum and getting our guys back in the dugout.”
Flaherty praised the bullpen’s performance, acknowledging the relief corps’ role in securing the win. “Our bullpen was lights out. From Vesia to Evan to Blake and then Kopech, who’s been dynamic. It’s fun knowing you can pass the ball to them, and they’ll keep us in the game.”
Although he only lasted five innings, Flaherty was content with the result, noting that wins are the ultimate goal. “It wasn’t pretty, and you always want to go deeper, but at this point, a win is a win. It doesn’t matter how it happens. Some days, my stuff will be better, but today was just about grinding it out.”
Flaherty also highlighted key defensive plays that helped his outing, including a double play by Gavin Lux and a diving stop from the infield from Miguel Rojas. “Defensively, it was great. Freddy made an amazing play in the last inning, and Will [Smith] threw out a runner. Those are the things you need to win games.”
Treating the game with a postseason mentality, Flaherty was determined to find a way to win, regardless of the challenges he faced. “You don’t give in. You go out and keep making pitches. It’s a grind, but that’s what we need to win games down the stretch.”
The win evened up a crucial series for the Dodgers, as Flaherty and the team look to carry their momentum forward into the next game.
Have you subscribed to the Bleed Los Podcast YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows & promotions, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
