Detroit Tigers Secure 2-Year Deal with Reliever Kyle Finnegan
The Detroit Tigers have made a significant move to bolster their bullpen for the upcoming seasons. On December 9, they announced the re-signing of right-handed reliever Kyle Finnegan for a two-year contract worth $19 million. This deal, which includes no opt-outs or options, ensures that Finnegan will remain with the Tigers until at least 2027. With the potential for additional earnings, the contract could reach a maximum of $20 million through incentives.
Finnegan’s Performance Analysis
In the 2025 MLB season, Kyle Finnegan showcased strong performance metrics. He posted a 3.47 ERA and struck out 55 batters over 57 innings in a combined 56 games for both the Washington Nationals and the Tigers. Throughout the season, he converted 24 of 31 save opportunities.
Prior to joining the Tigers, Finnegan’s statistics with the Nationals highlighted a 4.37 ERA. However, his transition to Detroit proved transformative; he achieved an impressive 1.50 ERA with an elevated strikeout rate of 34.8% after the trade. This performance underscores Finnegan’s potential as a reliable closer.
Strategic Changes in Pitching
A key factor in Finnegan’s success after joining the Tigers was a strategic adjustment to his pitching style. He shifted from throwing 65.7% fastballs and 29.6% splitters with the Nationals to a more effective 40.9% fastballs and 54.8% splitters under the Tigers’ guidance. This change allowed him to harness his skills more effectively, leading to the best results of his six-year career.
Future Bullpen Plans for the Tigers
With the re-signing of Kyle Finnegan, the Tigers now have two dependable relievers for high-pressure situations. Alongside Finnegan, right-hander Will Vest also demonstrated significant potential, with a 3.01 ERA and 75 strikeouts over 68⅔ innings in the previous season.
The Tigers are looking to enhance their bullpen further ahead of the 2026 season. While the focus may primarily be on internal development and minor-league acquisitions, the team remains open to additional high-leverage signings or trades.
Current Team Outlook
- Kyle Finnegan: 2-year, $19 million contract
- 2025 ERA: 3.47 with 24 saves
- Will Vest: 3.01 ERA with 23 saves
- Team ERA ranks 17th among 30 teams at 4.05
Tigers’ president of baseball operations Scott Harris has confirmed that the organization is actively pursuing a multifaceted approach to building a robust bullpen, indicating that the process includes various methods such as trades and free-agent signings. Harris expressed confidence in the team’s ability to enhance its performance moving forward.
This reunion with Kyle Finnegan symbolizes the Tigers’ commitment to building a competitive team as they prepare for the upcoming seasons. For more updates on the Tigers and their offseason activities, stay tuned to El-Balad.
