The Texas Rangers have declined reliever Andrew Chafin‘s option of $6.5 million, making him a free agent this winter. Nicknamed “Big Country” and “the Sheriff,” the 35-year-old sported an ERA of 3.51 with 70 strikeouts across 56 1/3 innings pitched in 2024. It was also announced today that right-handed pitcher Nathan Eovaldi declined his player option, making him a free agent. However, the Rangers are still interested in keeping the 34-year-old Eovaldi and are seeking a reunion. Texas also activated several players from the injured list, including Grant Anderson, Evan Carter, Carson Coleman, Jon Gray, Josh Jung, Tyler Mahle, Corey Seager, and Cole Winn.
Rangers Decline Andrew Chafin’s Club Option https://t.co/IG2xxIWelD pic.twitter.com/DxpALvUwWW
— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) November 4, 2024
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Rangers Reliever Andrew Chafin Becomes Free Agent After Option Declined
Chafin could slot in as a potential closer for his next team depending on their situation. The veteran has played in MLB for 11 seasons. Chafin is no stranger to free agency and is likely to be on the radar of the New York Mets. Could this be the offseason that they finally attain him? They and many other teams could be interested with Chafin now on the free-agent market. In his MLB career, he has also played for the Arizona Diamondbacks, Chicago Cubs, Oakland Athletics, Milwaukee Brewers, and Detroit Tigers. 2019 was a pinnacle for Chafin, as he set a career-high in strikeouts with 68.
In 2021, Chafin ranked fourth among qualified MLB relievers in ERA and ninth in WHIP. Chafin is a left-handed pitcher who signed a one-year contract with the Tigers in December of 2023. He was traded to the Rangers on July 30th for minor league pitchers Chase Lee and Joseph Montalvo. Chafin’s primary pitch is the slider, throwing that pitch in the mid-80s range. His slider has been known to provide depth while leading to swing and misses as well as flyouts. Chafin also turns to the four-seam fastball and the two-seam sinking fastball that both hit the 90s. The left-hander is also often used to face left-handed hitters.
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