Astros rumors: 3 trade deadline targets we should be scouting

3) Astros should look to trade for a lefty like Andrew Chafin

Andrew Chafin surprised a lot of people when he signed with the Tigers this offseason. Signed to a one-year deal with a player option for 2023, the lefty reliever has returned from an early injury and picked up right where he left off in 2021. Through 9 innings, he has struck out 11 batters and given up only 2 earned runs. The sample size is small yet it’s a perfect continuation from the 1.83 ERA he had combined for two teams in 2021.

The Astros would be a nice match for Chafin because of the arm he throws with. Blake Taylor has been their only lefty out of the bullpen this year aside from the 5.1 innings they got out of Parker Mushinski. Taylor has been questionable. Through 14 innings of work, he has a 3.86 ERA but 7 strikeouts and 7 walks.

There is no doubt the Astros will be in the market for a left-handed reliever this summer. It’s the crown jewel of many team’s trade deadline needs. Even in the era of the three-batter-minimum rule, lefty relief pitchers are coveted.

It’s looking like the Tigers bought incorrectly over the offseason and could be on their way to selling this summer. Fulmer is definitely going to head into free agency and Chafin would likely do the same if he has another successful year. Rather than lose both for nothing, the Tigers would be wise to make a move. It’s the Astros who might already have their eyes on this pair of relievers.