Cavalli shut down for final week after major 2026 breakout

The Washington Nationals have decided to shut down starting pitcher Cade Cavalli for the final week of the season following a dominant breakout campaign. Manager Blake Butera announced the decision on Tuesday in Detroit, noting the pitcher had surpassed previous workloads. Cavalli concluded his first full Major League season with a 13-5 record, a 3.02 ERA, and 200 strikeouts across 169 2/3 innings.

The 26-year-old right-hander, who missed three seasons due to injuries, pitched in 32 starts without missing a turn in the rotation. Cavalli signed a four-year contract extension with Washington after excelling in the second half, posting an 8-1 record with a 1.90 ERA following the All-Star break.