Should the Tigers Re-sign Kyle Finnegan?
As the offseason approaches, the Detroit Tigers face key decisions regarding their roster. Among these is the potential re-signing of relief pitcher Kyle Finnegan. Finnegan made a significant impact after joining the Tigers midseason and emerged as a reliable arm in the bullpen.
Finnegan’s Impressive Performance
Kyle Finnegan, a right-handed pitcher, demonstrated exceptional skills after a trade from the Washington Nationals to the Tigers. In August, he recorded one of the best months of his career, showcasing a notable increase in performance.
Background and Trade
Finnegan’s journey to Detroit began with the Nationals, where he had a solid yet unremarkable tenure. In 2024, he recorded 38 saves, but concerns over his ERA and strikeout rate led Washington to non-tender him. They later traded him to Detroit in exchange for young pitching prospects, RJ Sales and Josh Randall.
Changes in Pitching Strategy
Upon arriving in Detroit, both Finnegan and the Tigers implemented a new approach to his pitching. His splitter usage increased significantly, from 30% to 55%, subsequently boosting his strikeout rate from 23% to 35%. Minor adjustments, such as a change in arm angle, played a role in this upswing.
Statistical Analysis
- Games Pitched: 16 for the Tigers
- ERA with Detroit: 1.50
- BABIP: .211
- LOB%: 86.2%
- Contact Rate: 71.4%
Despite the outstanding 1.50 ERA, concerns arise about sustainability. Finnegan’s low batter average on balls in play (BABIP) suggests a fortunate run, although improvements in contact suppression are evident.
Future Considerations
The question now is whether the Tigers should re-sign Finnegan. Many teams are likely evaluating his recent success and questioning its longevity. He has shown flashes of brilliance but has also faced injury concerns, which could impact his future performance.
Market Predictions
Finnegan is projected to fall within the second tier of free-agent relievers this winter. Contract predictions estimate his value at around two years for less than $25 million. This is a reasonable investment for a player with proven upside, especially given his recent success with the Tigers.
Conclusion: A Bright Future?
If the Detroit Tigers aim to bolster their bullpen, re-signing Kyle Finnegan could be a strategic move. The mutual interest between Finnegan and the Tigers suggests a favorable path forward. Ultimately, they seem poised to pursue this opportunity, simplifying what could be a complex offseason decision.
