And at the end of it all, the Washington Nationals’ closer was an all-star for the first time, named to the National League roster as a replacement for St. Louis Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley, who opted not to pitch in the game for health reasons.
“I owe our daughter a trip to an amusement park,” Finnegan said. “We’ll see what we can drum up.”
Finnegan’s three kids were able to make the trip with him. His family, based in Houston, was able to make it for the game, too. The 32-year-old had compiled a 2024 campaign worthy of all-star consideration with his 25 saves and 2.45 ERA. But when the all-star rosters were named last week, shortstop CJ Abrams got the call to represent the Nationals instead.
But Monday in Hershey, Finnegan’s phone rang. And after years of sturdy work for the Nationals, he was officially one of the game’s best, even though he didn’t appear in Tuesday’s game.
“Seeing how amazing this whole production has been, the whole area around the ballpark and hotel, I have a 12-year-old daughter — she’s just awestruck,” Finnegan said.
The Nationals begin the second half at home Friday against the Cincinnati Reds. And after the wild way he ended up spending his week, Finnegan has firmer plans for how he plans to use the time between now and then.
“Definitely one day of rest,” he said. “I need to catch up on some sleep.”
Abrams made his All-Star Game debut in fitting fashion: He replaced former Nationals shortstop Trea Turner in the sixth inning. He took one at-bat, with the NL trailing in the eighth, and struck out on three pitches.
