(Detroit, MI) -The Washington Nationals have shut down right-handed pitcher Cade Cavalli for the remainder of the 2026 season.
The decision is not related to an injury or health concern. With the Nationals’ position in the standings and Cavalli’s substantial innings total in mind, the club has elected not to have him make another start this year.
The news comes shortly after Cavalli signed a contract extension with the Nationals, further underscoring the organization’s long-term commitment to one of the club’s most important pitchers. Shutting him down now allows Washington to protect that investment and turn its attention toward 2027.
Cavalli’s 2026 season
Cavalli finishes the year with 32 starts, a 13–5 record, a 3.02 ERA, and a 1.16 WHIP. He struck out 200 batters while limiting opponents to a .232 batting average.
32 starts
13–5 record
3.02 ERA
1.16 WHIP
200 strikeouts
.232 opponents’ batting average
Ranked 13th among MLB pitchers in fWAR
Ranked 8th in SIERA
Ranked 9th in xFIP
Ranked 9th in K-BB%
One of only eight pitchers in baseball with 200 strikeouts
Cavalli’s performance placed him among baseball’s most effective starters in 2026, both in traditional results and key advanced metrics. Now under contract for the future, the right-hander will enter next season positioned to remain a centerpiece of the Nationals’ rotation.
Stay with The Nats Report for continued coverage of Cavalli’s extension, the final days of the season, and the Nationals’ plans for 2027.