Tigers and Orioles Tie 4-4 in Spring Training Opener

Tigers pitcher Jack Flaherty makes debut in new orange alternate jerseys

Feb. 23, 2026 at 6:05am

The Detroit Tigers and Baltimore Orioles played to a 4-4 tie in their spring training opener at Publix Field in Lakeland, Florida. Tigers pitcher Jack Flaherty, who was acquired in the offseason, made his debut for the team and said it felt good to face hitters in a different uniform after the game.

Why it matters

Spring training games provide the first opportunity for new players like Flaherty to get acclimated to their new teams and for teams to evaluate their rosters ahead of the upcoming MLB season. The Tigers' new orange alternate jerseys were also on display for the first time.

The details

Flaherty, who was traded to the Tigers in the offseason, pitched two innings in the game, allowing one run on two hits. The Tigers and Orioles played to a 4-4 tie after 9 innings of play. The new orange alternate jerseys worn by the Tigers were a focal point of the game.

  • The game took place on Sunday, February 23, 2026 at Publix Field in Lakeland, Florida.

The players

Jack Flaherty

A right-handed pitcher who was acquired by the Detroit Tigers in the offseason and made his debut for the team in the spring training opener.

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What they’re saying

“It was good to be back out there in a game environment and get the adrenaline up a little bit,”

— Jack Flaherty

The takeaway

The spring training opener provided an early look at the Tigers' new-look roster, including the debut of offseason acquisition Jack Flaherty, as well as the team's new orange alternate uniforms. These early games are an important part of teams preparing for the upcoming MLB season.