Washington Nationals closer Finnegan joins as the ninth replacement All-Star and marks the 39th first-time selection

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Washington Nationals relief pitcher Kyle Finnegan was selected on Monday to replace St. Louis Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley on the National League All-Star team.

Finnegan is the fourth replacement chosen for the NL roster, while five replacements have been named for the AL team. This marks Finnegan’s first All-Star appearance.

Kyle Finnegan celebrates in the game

The Texas native has posted a record of 2-4 with 25 saves and a 2.45 ERA in 41 games for the Nationals this season. He is currently in his fifth year in Major League Baseball.

Helsley leads all MLB pitchers with 32 saves, securing his latest save on Saturday in his first game since July 5. He is still participating in All-Star activities in Arlington.

Ryan Dyrud

Founder and CEO of SportsAlDente.com & LAFBNetwork.com. Grew up in Denver with a passion for all sports and an emphasis on the NFL. Moved to Los Angeles where I graduated from Long Beach State with a degree in Leisure Services (Yes the Van Wilder degree). My opinions are my own, but they should be yours too.