The ongoing back-and-forth between Washington Nationals General Manager Mike Rizzo and 2024 All-Star Kyle Finnegan and his camp has seemingly reached a true stalling point at this time. If the latest comments from the Nationals GM are any indication, it seems like the ball is firmly in the ball of Finnegan and his representatives.
Rizzo, who appeared on MLB Network Radio with hosts Steve Phillips and Jim Bowen, made it very clear that in order for the righty to return to the Nation's Capital, it is going to require a little bit more cooperation than they have seen thus far. Here's what Rizzo had to say: "we have had open discussions with Kyle and his representatives, it takes two to tango, we have kept in close contact with him and...they just haven't been able to say yes." (via Talk Nats on X)
To me, this makes it appear as if Finnegan, who had a career year in 2024 that ultimately resulted in his 1st career selection to the midsummer classic, is likely not wanting to take a deal for less money just to end up back with the same team that basically told him they weren't going to pay him what he thought he was worth.
This, of course, is because the Nationals somewhat surprisingly non-tendered Finnegan after the 2024 season concluded, and the team has not yet filled that gap with a proven option for the 9th inning. While the club likely would be just fine rolling with Jose A. Ferrer, who looked outstanding in his first appearance of the spring, or newly-signed relievers like Jorge Lopez or Lucas Sims, it is telling that Rizzo seemingly wants to bring back Finnegan.
Although Finnegan tailed off pretty drastically as the season wore on last season, there is no doubt that having a proven 9th inning option for this club would help in some capacity. I understand Finnegan maybe not wanting to come back because of a pride thing perhaps, but with Opening Day drawing closer and closer by the day, he is losing whatever sort of leverage he believes he has the longer that he goes unsigned.
To me, what would make sense for both side would be to offer him a raise over his $5.1 million salary from last season, but not exceeding the $8.6 million figure he was due to receive this season originally. Whether or not Finnegan chooses to come back is his decision, but as RIzzo said "it takes two to tango."
Do you want to see Kyle Finnegan return? As always, please let me know on X, @DCBerk.