Cardinals: 3 Tigers trade chips worth pursuing at the deadline

Andrew Chafin, RP

The Tigers signed Andrew Chafin to a 1-year deal worth $6 million, plus a player option worth $6.5 million with a $500K buyout. It’s safe to say that Chafin is as good as gone after this season in Detroit, as he’s outperformed that salary. He probably doesn’t want to endure another season in Detroit, either. I can’t blame him.

Hence why the Tigers should be sure to trade their valuable late-inning, left-handed reliever at the deadline. The 33-year-old Chafin has pitched 30.2 innings over 36 games and given the club a 2.64 ERA, 2.21 FIP, and a terrific 150 ERA+. He has 9 walks to a whopping 37 Ks. This might be the best season of Chafin’s career.

Playoff teams like the Cardinals can never have enough late-inning relievers, which is why they should go out and acquire Chafin. He’ll be cheaper than Joe Jimenez or Gregory Soto while providing tons of value.

The Cardinals have 3 lefties in their bullpen: Genesis Cabrera, Zack Thompson, and TJ McFarland. Cabrera has been terrific, but the other two have been just alright. You can’t ever have enough relief pitching, and acquiring a dominant lefty reliever for not much in terms of prospects is always a good move. In the postseason, the Cardinals can cover for a starter by having a dominant bullpen. Moves like these set up winning postseasons.