The Washington Nationals and right-hander Cade Cavalli have settled on a one-year deal worth $862,500, avoiding what would’ve been an arbitration hearing over just $75,000.
MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand reported the agreement Sunday morning. The deal also includes a $4 million club option for 2027 with a $7,500 buyout.
Cade Cavalli and the Nationals have settled and will avoid arbitration, per source. Cavalli will earn $862,500 in 2026 and the Nats have a club option worth $4 million ($7,500 buyout) for 2027.
What makes this interesting is how close the two sides actually were. ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported earlier this month that Washington submitted $825,000 while Cavalli’s camp filed at $900,000.
The final number? Exactly halfway between the two figures.
That’s a pretty telling sign that neither side really wanted to go through the arbitration process over such a small gap. You’re talking about $75,000 separating the two positions – not exactly a huge gulf for a major league organization.
From where I’m sitting, it never made much sense for the Nats to dig in their heels here. Sure, Cavalli’s dealt with injuries and inconsistency since his days as a top prospect. But creating potential friction with a young pitcher over what amounts to pocket change seems counterproductive.
The way I see it, this outcome works for everyone involved. Cavalli gets a slight bump from Washington’s original offer, the Nats avoid any awkwardness from an arbitration hearing, and both sides can focus on what really matters – whether he can stay healthy and contribute in 2026.
Cavalli isn’t guaranteed to play a major role this season given his recent struggles. But at least now there’s no lingering tension from a contentious salary negotiation hanging over the relationship.
All things considered, sometimes the simplest solution – splitting the difference – turns out to be the smartest one.
