Oct 18, 2024; New York City, New York, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Jack Flaherty (0) reacts after the final out in in the third inning against the New York Mets during game five of the NLCS for the 2024 MLB playoffs at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Jack Flaherty struggled in a losing effort during Game 5 of the NLCS on Friday against the New York Mets. After the game, he made it known that one of the narratives around him in the postseason has been completely overplayed.
Leading 3-1 in the series, Flaherty had a chance to pitch the Dodgers into the World Series. However, it quickly became apparent that it wouldn’t happen. Flaherty allowed three runs in the first inning and five more in the third. He lasted only three innings, allowing eight runs (all earned) on eight hits with four walks and the Dodgers lost 12-6 to the Mets.
Flaherty grew up in Southern California and went to Harvard-Westlake School in Los Angeles. Flaherty was asked a question about that following Friday’s game.
“Jack. We all know your story. Hometown guy. It’s the team you cheered for. How frustrating is it for you that you weren’t able to get it done for your team today?”
While Flaherty offered a polite reply, he shot down that narrative.
“I don’t think me being — growing up here — has any addition to being frustrated,” Flaherty replied. “I understand that this has been a whole story and everything. But like, there’s no added frustration because I grew up here. I’d be pissed off no matter where I was playing. So, kind of tired of that. But I’d be frustrated no matter what. And I’d be ecstatic with how Game 1 went no matter where I was pitching. No matter what it’s frustrating. Today sucks. But we got another one. We get to go back to LA, you know? Get greeted by our fans.”
Flaherty was obviously frustrated after a poor performance. So, it’s a credit to him that even though he’s tired of the narrative, he answered the question in a firm yet polite way.
Los Angeles is still in control of the NLCS. The Dodgers lead 3-2 and will host Game 6 and (if necessary) Game 7 on Sunday and Monday, respectively.
