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Tigers Add Former All-Star Closer Kyle Finnegan: What It Means for Detroit's Bullpen
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- Tigers Add Former All-Star Closer Kyle Finnegan: What It Means for Detroit's Bullpen
The Detroit Tigers upgraded their bullpen ahead of the 6 p.m. deadline, trading for 2024 All-Star closer Kyle Finnegan from the Washington Nationals . In return, Washington received pitching prospects Josh Randall (Detroit's No. 15 prospect) and R.J. Sales.
Finnegan brings 20 saves in 40 appearances this year, though he's blown six opportunities and carries a 4.38 ERA. The right-hander does throw hard — his 96.2 mph fastball ranks in the 80th percentile — but struggles with low whiff (21.7) and strikeout (19.6) percentages that rank in the 24th and 31st percentiles, respectively.
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Despite the inflated ERA, underlying metrics suggest better performance ahead. His expected ERA sits at 3.51 while his FIP stands at 3.60. Finnegan becomes a free agent after this year.
The Tigers targeted bullpen help after many elite closers changed hands earlier — Mason Miller , Jhoan Duran and Ryan Helsley all moved before today's deadline. Detroit's relief corps ranks 20th in ERA (4.16), tied for 23rd in home runs allowed (51) and 21st in opponent batting average (.249).
Detroit doubled down on bullpen additions, also acquiring right-handed reliever Paul Sewald from the Cleveland Guardians for a player to be named later or cash considerations. Sewald has posted a 4.70 ERA across 18 appearances this year.
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