Rangers reportedly to bolster bullpen by landing needed veteran lefty

07-30-2024
2 min read
David Reginek-USA TODAY Sports

If you were to have asked if the Texas Rangers were going to be sellers ahead of the 2024 Major League Baseball trade deadline a few weeks ago, the answer would have seemed like yes.

Texas has started to turn things around and now is in range of a playoff spot. The Rangers wouldn't be in the playoffs if the season were to end today, but they are starting to get healthier and now are just 3 1/2 games behind the Houston Astros and Seattle Mariners for the top spot in the American League West. 

The Rangers have the firepower to make up some ground in the standings but have needed to add some help to the bullpen. Texas reportedly did just that on Tuesday by acquiring veteran lefty Andrew Chafin in a trade with the Detroit Tigers, according to ESPN's Jeff Passan.

"The Texas Rangers are finalizing a deal to acquire left-handed reliever Andrew Chafin from the Detroit Tigers, sources tell ESPN," Passan said.

Chafin has appeared in 41 games so far this season and has a 3.16 ERA and 50-to-16 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 37 innings pitched. He will add another lefty to the Rangers' bullpen who can help out in high-leverage moments down the stretch. 

The 34-year-old has been a popular trade candidate in recent weeks and now will have a chance to join a contender in the Rangers and fight for a playoff spot. 

MORE MLB DEADLINE: Live updates | Live grades | 15 players most likely to be traded