The Washington Nationals have secured closer Kyle Finnegan for the 2025 season, signing him to a one-year, $6 million contract. Finnegan, 33, was initially non-tendered by the team in December but has returned for a modest raise from his previous salary of $5.1 million. This deal comes after the Nationals saved money by bypassing arbitration, with Finnegan expected to have earned around $8 million had he remained eligible.
In 2024, Finnegan had a standout first half, saving 25 games with a solid 2.45 ERA, earning an All-Star selection. However, his performance took a downturn in the latter half of the season, where he struggled with a 5.79 ERA and a 1-4 record. Despite the drop in performance, Finnegan’s overall contributions were crucial to the Nationals’ bullpen stability.
Kyle Finnegan (MLB)Finnegan’s Consistency and Experience Bolster Nationals’ Rebuilding Efforts in 2025 Bullpen
Finnegan has been with the Nationals throughout his entire five-year MLB career. He became the team’s primary closer in 2023, collecting 66 saves over that time. His consistency and experience have made him a central figure in the Nationals’ bullpen, and his return for 2025 will provide continuity for the team as they aim to rebuild.
As part of Washington’s ongoing rebuilding efforts, Finnegan’s re-signing bolsters an evolving bullpen. He will be joined by new additions, including Lucas Sims and Jorge Lopez, as the Nationals aim to improve their pitching depth. The team is focused on regrouping after their 2019 World Series win, and these moves are key to their efforts to regain competitiveness.
