UPDATE: The Washington Nationals have officially avoided salary arbitration with right-hander Cade Cavalli, finalizing a one-year contract valued at $870,000 on January 8, 2024. This deal includes a team option for $4 million in 2027, marking a significant step for the 27-year-old pitcher as he returns to the field.
Cavalli, who faced a challenging recovery after undergoing Tomy John surgery in March 2023, made an impressive comeback during the 2024 season. He achieved a record of 3-1 with a 4.25 ERA in ten starts, showcasing his potential as a key player for the Nationals. The contract’s terms reflect a midpoint between the proposed arbitration salaries, with Cavalli initially seeking $900,000 while the Nationals offered $825,000.
This agreement comes as a relief for both Cavalli and the Nationals, especially since it resolves one of the smallest salary gaps among the 18 players facing arbitration. Cavalli’s contract stipulates an annual salary of $862,500 for 2024, along with a low buyout option of $7,500 for the team.
Originally selected as the 22nd overall pick in the 2020 amateur draft, Cavalli made his major league debut on August 26, 2022, but struggled with injuries that sidelined him for the majority of the following season. After making a brief return to action in 2024, he started the year in Class A Fredericksburg before quickly moving up to Double-A Harrisburg and then Triple-A Rochester.
Cavalli’s journey reflects resilience, overcoming significant hurdles to reclaim his spot on the Nationals’ roster. His return to the big leagues culminated in a stellar performance where he pitched 4 1/3 scoreless innings against the Athletics, ultimately securing his first major league win on August 16 against the Philadelphia Phillies.
As the Nationals celebrate this agreement, 17 players remain scheduled for arbitration hearings, set to take place from January 26 to February 13 in Scottdale, Arizona. Notably, the case of two-time AL Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal looms large, as he seeks a record $32 million, with the Detroit Tigers countering at $19 million.
The resolution of Cavalli’s contract highlights the urgency and stakes involved in Major League Baseball’s arbitration process, making it a pivotal moment for both the player and the organization. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the Nationals prepare for the upcoming season, eager to see how Cavalli contributes to the team’s success in 2024.