Detroit Tigers Sign Closer Kyle Finnegan to Two-Year Deal

The Detroit Tigers have secured closer Kyle Finnegan on a two-year contract worth $19 million, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan. The agreement is pending a physical examination, which is a standard procedure in Major League Baseball (MLB) contracts. Finnegan’s performance following his trade from the Washington Nationals at the deadline has been pivotal, and he returns to a team aiming for a third consecutive playoff appearance.

Finnegan, 34, made a significant impact during his time with the Tigers. Over the course of the season, he recorded 24 saves and maintained a 3.47 ERA alongside 55 strikeouts. His contributions were especially notable after he joined the Tigers, enhancing their bullpen during a critical stretch of the season.

Recent Performance and Injury Challenges

Before his move to the Tigers, Finnegan had a successful tenure with the Nationals, where he achieved 38 saves in the previous full season, following a total of 28 saves the year before. Despite a strong performance, last season was not without its challenges; Finnegan spent time on the injured list due to a mild right adductor strain. This injury occurred while he was warming up for a game against the New York Mets as the Tigers fought for postseason contention in September.

The Tigers finished the 2023 season with a record of 87-75 and successfully advanced past the Cleveland Guardians in the Wild Card round, progressing to the American League Division Series (ALDS). Unfortunately, their playoff run ended there as they were defeated by the Seattle Mariners.

Finnegan’s signing is seen as a critical step for the Tigers as they seek to build on last season’s success. The team aims to strengthen its bullpen and enhance its competitiveness in a league marked by tight races and formidable opponents. The announcement of Finnegan’s contract was first reported by Fansided, highlighting the interest surrounding this player move in the MLB landscape.

As the offseason progresses, the Tigers will look to further bolster their roster, with Finnegan’s return providing a solid foundation for their pitching staff moving forward.