Tigers Sign Finnegan to 2-Year Deal, DFA Malloy

The Detroit Tigers finalized a two-year contract with right-handed reliever Kyle Finnegan on Saturday, bolstering their bullpen while designating outfielder Justyn-Henry Malloy for assignment to clear a spot on the 40-man roster.

Finnegan, a 34-year-old Detroit native, agreed to terms worth $19 million guaranteed, with salaries of $8.75 million in 2026 and $8 million in 2027. The deal includes a mutual option for 2028 at $10 million, along with a $2.25 million buyout if declined. He stands to earn up to $500,000 in performance bonuses each year, including $125,000 increments for reaching 40, 45, 50 and 55 games finished. The signing addresses a key weakness in the Tigers' relief corps, which struggled for consistency during their 2025 season following a playoff appearance the prior year.

Acquired from the Washington Nationals at the July 31 trade deadline in exchange for minor league pitchers Josh Randall and R.J. Sales, Finnegan provided an immediate boost. In 16 relief appearances with Detroit, he went 3-0 with a 1.50 earned-run average, securing four saves while striking out 23 and walking four over 18 innings. His season was interrupted by a right adductor strain that...