The Washington Nationals have brought back Kyle Finnegan! After being a key cog in the Nats bullpen over recent years, Finnegan was non-tendered back in November. The Nationals were not comfortable paying him the $8.6 million he was projected to make it arbitration.
However, they were comfortable with a one-year $6 million deal. The two sides have seemingly been in a staring contest for a little while, but have now settled on a number that works for both sides.
Finnegan had a very strong first half, posting a 2.45 ERA and saving 25 games. This led to an all-star appearance for the veteran reliever. However, the wheels began to fall of after the all-star break and the Nats couldn’t find a trade partner for the right hander.
Despite posting a 5.79 ERA in the second half, Finnegan is still a reliable good but not great bullpen arm. He has hot and cold stretches, but it tends to average out at around a 3.50-3.70 ERA every season. Finnegan is also highly durable, making at least 65 appearances in each of the last four seasons. You know what you are going to get out of the 33 year old.
It will be interesting to see if Finnegan is immediately given the closer role. My guess would be that he will, but guys like Jorge Lopez and Jose A Ferrer will be breathing down his neck. Overall, it is good to see Finnegan back. He is far from perfect, but he is reliable and ultra-consistent.