The Tigers made a strategic move on Saturday, officially signing relief pitcher Kyle Finnegan to a two-year contract worth $19 million. This move comes with a mutual option for 2028, valued at $10 million, and a $2.250 million buyout. Finnegan, turning 34, will earn $8.75 million in 2026 and $8 million in 2027, with the potential to earn up to $500,000 in performance bonuses annually, including $125,000 for each 40, 45, 50, and 55 games finished.
To accommodate this addition, the Tigers designated outfielder Justyn-Henry Malloy for assignment, creating space on the 40-man roster. Malloy, 26, was acquired from the Braves in December 2022 for reliever Joe Jimenez. He had a strong performance in Triple-A for four seasons, but his big-league debut with the Tigers in 2024 was less impressive. Malloy struggled against major league pitching, batting .209 with nine home runs and a 32.8% strikeout rate. While he was effective against left-handed pitching, with an .820 OPS, his power was limited, resulting in a .423 slug.
This move highlights the Tigers' strategic approach to roster management, as they balance the need for relief pitching with the potential for future development in their outfield.
