Steve Webb
LOS ANGELES, CA — Jack Flaherty, set to make his Dodger Stadium debut in a Dodger uniform on Friday night, has long been destined for the big leagues. But before he became one of baseball’s most promising pitchers, Flaherty was just a kid with a dream, growing up in Southern California and idolizing the same team he now plays for.
Born on October 15, 1995, in Burbank, California, Flaherty grew up in a sports-loving household. From a young age, it was clear that he had a special talent for baseball. He was raised by his mother, Eileen, who adopted him at birth. She became not just a parent but also a guiding force in his life. Flaherty often speaks of the discipline, work ethic, and determination instilled in him by his mother, who encouraged him to pursue his dreams both on and off the field.
Growing up in Los Angeles, Flaherty was naturally drawn to the Dodgers. Like many kids in the area, he spent his childhood watching games at Dodger Stadium and dreaming of one day playing on that hallowed field. His favorite players were those who wore the Dodger blue, and he often imagined himself taking the mound at Chavez Ravine, throwing strikes in front of a cheering hometown crowd.
Flaherty attended Harvard-Westlake School, a private high school in Studio City, known for its strong athletics program. It was here that he began to truly develop as a pitcher under the guidance of legendary coach Matt LaCour. Flaherty’s talent was evident from the start, and he quickly became one of the top prospects in the country. He played alongside future MLB stars like Lucas Giolito and Max Fried, forming a trio that would later become renowned for their dominance on the mound.
His high school years were marked by numerous accolades, including being named the 2014 Gatorade California Baseball Player of the Year. Flaherty’s combination of a powerful arm, fierce competitiveness, and an advanced understanding of the game made him a standout prospect. Scouts from all over the country took notice, and it was clear that he had a bright future in baseball.
Despite his success in high school, Flaherty faced a tough decision: pursue his dream of playing professional baseball or honor his commitment to the University of North Carolina, where he had received a scholarship. Ultimately, the St. Louis Cardinals selected him in the first round of the 2014 MLB Draft, and Flaherty chose to begin his professional career.
Over the years, Flaherty developed into one of the best young pitchers in the game, known for his dominant fastball and sharp slider. However, the dream of playing for his hometown team never faded. When the Dodgers acquired him, it was a moment of fulfillment for Flaherty, bringing him full circle from his childhood days of cheering in the stands to taking the mound at Dodger Stadium.
As he prepares for his Dodger Stadium debut in a Dodger uniform, Flaherty carries with him the dreams of his youth, ready to make an impact for the team he has always loved. For Flaherty, this isn’t just another game—it’s the culmination of a lifelong journey, a dream realized under the bright lights of Los Angeles.
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!
