A few days ahead of his Opening Day assignment in Cincinnati against the Reds, Cardinals starter Jack Flaherty answered a handful of questions for us here at VEB, from food to game situations to his new partnership.
1. With this new partnership with BODYARMOR, you’re joining a special group of athletes, including fellow MLB stars Mookie Betts & Mike Trout. Does being included in a partnership with such talented athletes help you realize just how special of a player you are?
Anytime you can be mentioned on the same level as those guys, it’s good to hear. Usually it means you’re doing something right. I think you see now – more than ever before – athletes are really conscious of what they’re putting into their bodies. That’s why a brand like BODYARMOR resonates with so many of us.
2. What is your go-to BodyArmor flavor?
Watermelon Strawberry.
3. Do you prefer to pitch during day games or night games? Is one just ‘better’ than the other?
Doesn’t matter to me whether it’s day or night. Any time I can toe the rubber I’ll take it.
(In his career, Flaherty has a 2.58 ERA in 150 ‘day’ innings, with a .193 opponents’ batting average. He’s got a 3.82 with a .208 in 259 nighttime frames..)
4. The last year has been tough, with the passing of several Hall of Famers across the league. Can you briefly describe your relationship with Bob Gibson, and what’s the best advice you received from him?
I don’t really know how to describe it other than the fact that I was really blessed to have any type of relationship with him. He answered any question I had for him. He always told me to never let up and keep attacking hitters.
RIP ❤️ ✊
— Jack Flaherty (@Jack9Flaherty) October 3, 2020
Thank you for all your wisdom
You are a legend
❤️✊ pic.twitter.com/9HVldf8vPG
5. How pumped were you about the acquisition of Nolan Arenado, and how did you find out about the big trade?
Anytime you add a player of that caliber to your team, it’s exciting – and it only makes your team better and more competitive going into the next season.
6. Do you use any of the newer technology in the game, such as Rapsodo? If so, how much does it influence your game?
I’m still learning the new technology and how exactly it will help me in the game. A lot of the coaches on the team have really helped out, but for me it’s still work in progress.
7. Would you rather strike out 20 batters or throw a perfect game?
Strike out 20.
(Really not surprised by Jack’s answer here. There have been only five 20-strikeout games in MLB history, compared to 21 perfect games. Plus, you would expect a guy with a career 10.6 K/9 rate to side with the strikeout glory.)
8. Fun question: toasted ravioli is a very popular St. Louis dish, but it seems like folks either love it or loathe it. Which side of the fence are you on?
Never tried it so don’t have an answer! Someone will have to make me some so I can answer this.
(Alright... who wants to invite Jack over for some toasted ravs?)
Thanks again for your time, Jack!