against the Minnesota Twins, Nathan blew his seventh save of the season, surpassing his previous career high of six blown saves when he pitched for the Twins in 2008. Nathan finished his first season with the Tigers making 62 appearances and going 5–4 with 35 saves in 42 chances, while posting an ERA of 4.81. He made one postseason appearance in 2014, retiring all three batters he faced in a non-save situation in Game 2 of the ALDS against the Baltimore Orioles. The Tigers were swept in the series, 3–0. On April 8, 2015, Nathan was placed on the 15-day disabled list due to a strained right elbow. During a rehab start with the Toledo Mud Hens on April 22, Nathan re-injured his elbow after throwing only 10 pitches. The same night, Nathan underwent MRIs, which tested positive revealing tears in his ulnar collateral ligament of the elbow and his pronator teres muscle, and would undergo Tommy John surgery, ending Nathan's 2015 season. Sources projected that this surgery could end Nathan's career, but he was not planning to retire yet. During the 2015 offseason, the Tigers declined the $10 million club option for Nathan for the 2016 season, and exercised a $1 million buyout. Chicago Cubs (2016) On May 17, 2016, Nathan signed with the Chicago Cubs. He was immediately placed on the 60-day disabled list upon signing to continue recovery from his previous Tommy John surgery. He made his Cubs debut on July 24, 2016 against the Milwaukee Brewers, pitching one inning and striking out three while allowing one hit and one walk to earn the win. After three appearances, the Cubs designated Nathan for assignment on August 6, 2016. The Cubs went on to win the World Series that year, earning Nathan his first World Series ring. Second stint with Giants (2016) On August 16, 2016, Nathan signed a minor league deal with the San Francisco Giants. On September 3, Nathan was called up from the Triple-A Richmond Flying Squirrels to the Giants expanded September roster. Washington Nationals Nathan signed a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training with the Washington Nationals for the 2017 season. He opted out of his contract and was released on March 27, 2017, as spring training came to a close. He was re-signed to a minor league contract on April 9, and released for a second time on May 31.