Tigers re-sign Kyle Finnegan to a two-year $19 million contract originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
After dominating for much of the season last year and eventually making the American League Division Series, all eyes have been on the Detroit Tigers this offseason. Would they be able to land a top free agent like Alex Bregman? Would they seriously consider trading Tarik Skubal? Thus far, Detroit hasn’t made any moves with the exception of Gleyber Torres signing his qualifying offer.
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On Tuesday night, the Tigers signed their first big free agent of the 2025 offseason, agreeing to bring back Kyle Finnegan on a two-year $19 million contract. The contract can max out at $20 million with incentives.
Detroit acquired Finnegan from the Nationals last season and he impressed in 16 games with the Tigers. Across those games, Finnegan posted a 3-0 record with a 1.50 ERA and four saves. Over the last three seasons, Finnegan has recorded 90 saves.
Given the familiarity with Finnegan, the price point and the thinning market for relievers, this is a solid deal for Detroit. Just like last season, Finnegan will work in tandem with Will Vest out of the bullpen, another Detroit reliever with closing experience.
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Now, apart from Robert Suarez, Pete Fairbanks and Kenley Jansen, there are few closers left on the free agent market. That said, set-up relievers are still available, including Brad Keller, Luke Weaver, Seranthony Dominguez and Tyler Rogers to name a few.
While this is a good start for the Tigers, you have to think that they’ll need to add a bit more to keep pace with other American League contenders.
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