Flaherty Struggles: Dodgers Fans Start to Doubt His Return
**It's been a tough few weeks for Dodgers fans. The team's ace, Walker Buehler, is out for the season, and now there's a growing sense of unease surrounding another key pitcher: ** Tony Flaherty. **
Flaherty, who signed a big contract with the Dodgers last offseason, has been a shadow of his former self. He's been hit hard, his control has been erratic, and his signature slider just hasn't been as sharp. In his last five starts, Flaherty has given up at least four runs each time. The guy who was once considered a lock for a Cy Young Award has suddenly become a major liability on the mound.
So, what's going on?
Is this just a slump, or is something more serious at play?
The Dodgers, understandably, are downplaying the issue. They're saying Flaherty's just experiencing a "rough patch" and that they're confident he'll bounce back. But fans aren't buying it. There are whispers of arm fatigue, a possible injury, or maybe even a loss of confidence.
The Dodgers' social media is filled with concerned fans, some even questioning if the team made a mistake signing Flaherty. "Is he even trying?" some fans complain. Others are even more pessimistic, suggesting that Flaherty's time in Los Angeles might be short-lived.
It's a tough situation.
The Dodgers need Flaherty to be at his best. They're in a tight race for the division title, and they can't afford to have another key player struggling.
But there's still hope.
Flaherty is a talented pitcher, and he's had success in the past. It's entirely possible that he can turn things around. He's got the stuff to be a dominant force, he just needs to find it again.
**Here's what I'm thinking: **
The Dodgers should consider giving Flaherty a little more time to work things out. He may need a few weeks to regain his form. They should also look into the possibility of a minor league rehab assignment. It's a good way for him to regain confidence and work on his mechanics without the pressure of a big league game.
**Let's just hope that the Dodgers don't need to pull the plug on Flaherty any time soon. The team needs him to be their ace. **