A year ago, Jack Flaherty bet on himself by choosing the Detroit Tigers, turning down more years and more money to sign a one-year deal that would allow him to showcase his talents and return to the market for the long-term deal he coveted.

Flaherty signed a two-year contract worth up to $45 million. His return creates a new level of competition in the Tigers rotation.

Flaherty will sign two-year, $35 million contract with an opt out, returning to the site of his career turnaround while taking a top starter off the free agent market.

The contract includes an opt-out clause after the first year and he would receive $25 million in salary and bonus this upcoming season.

Free Press sports writer Evan Petzold evaluates the deal between the Detroit Tigers and Jack Flaherty in free agency, providing a grade and analysis.

It wasn't always in the cards, but the Detroit Tigers decided it was more than worth it to sign Jack Flaherty. How does it impact their rotation?

Flaherty returned as a free agent, agreeing to a $35 million, two-year contract that was finalized Friday. The right-hander gets a $5 million signing bonus payable on Feb. 11 pending confirmation of terms between Major League Baseball and the players’ association, and a $20 million salary this year.

A reunion that could have been awkward but instead thrilled the former Dodgers prospects and new teammates of Jack Flaherty.