Cavalli signs four-year deal

The Nationals extended right-hander Cade Cavalli with a four-year contract worth $47 million starting in 2027, with a club option that could push it to $70 million.

From uncertainty to ace

Cavalli entered the season with just 53 major league innings and durability questions, but he's now 12-5 with a 3.12 ERA and 194 strikeouts in 164 2/3 innings.

The 2020 draft pick blooms

A first-round pick in 2020, Cavalli has become the Nationals' staff ace this season, leading the team in games started and innings pitched while earning praise from manager Blake Butera.

Adjusted routine paid off

Cavalli modified his recovery routine between starts to stay healthy and added a sweeper to his arsenal, delivering the consistency the Nationals needed from their pitching staff.

New regime keeps stars

The extension marks a shift for the Nationals, who typically traded away stars after their 2019 World Series win. President Paul Toboni, hired from Boston, is building a culture of player development and retention.

“We want to make this a place where players want to be.”

Signaling organizational change

Cavalli's deal is the first major extension under Toboni since catcher Keibert Ruiz signed in 2023, showing the new regime's commitment to keeping core players and attracting future talent.

Playoffs possible in 2027

With Cavalli locked in as their ace, the Nationals believe the playoffs are realistic for 2027 if they upgrade their pitching staff, which currently ranks 27th in ERA.