The Yankees aren’t done bolstering their bullpen ahead of the 2025 season, with recent rumors linking them to left-handed pitcher Andrew Chafin. According to Bob Nightingale of USA Today, the 34-year-old southpaw could be on the Yankees’ radar as they look to shore up the relief corps with experienced arms.
Chafin’s 2024 Campaign
Chafin split last season between the Detroit Tigers and Texas Rangers, logging 56.1 innings with a respectable 3.51 ERA. While he may not be the dominant force he once was, Chafin still managed to strike out 11.18 batters per nine innings, a testament to his ability to miss bats even as his velocity declines. His 75.3% left-on-base rate and 36.1% ground ball rate indicate he’s still capable of managing traffic on the bases, though his 4.95 walks per nine innings raise concerns about control.
Despite the walk rate, Chafin limits home runs, which has kept him effective in key moments. If the Yankees are looking for a left-handed specialist who can step into high-leverage situations when needed, Chafin may be an economical choice.
A Possible Tim Hill Alternative
Chafin’s name surfaces as the Yankees evaluate alternatives to Tim Hill, who emerged as a critical piece during their playoff run. Hill’s electric postseason performances left big shoes to fill, and while Chafin might not match Hill’s impact, he could provide a steady veteran presence.
With Chafin coming off a one-year, $4.75 million deal, the Yankees may be able to sign him for a bargain—perhaps a one-year, $2-3 million contract—given his decreasing velocity and advancing age.
Still a Specialist
Chafin may no longer overpower hitters, but his ability to induce whiffs and chases remains elite. He ranked in the 97th percentile in whiff rate and 96th percentile in chase rate last season, proving that he can still keep hitters off balance. His pitch mix, which includes a slider, sinker, and four-seam fastball, is built around his slider, which held opponents to a minuscule .127 batting average in 2024.
The Yankees likely view Chafin as a specialist, particularly against left-handed hitters, and he could be deployed strategically in high-leverage moments. While he may not be a flashy addition, Chafin’s experience and ability to miss bats make him a valuable depth piece for a bullpen that has consistently been one of the team’s strengths.
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Strategic Value
Chafin represents a low-risk, high-reward signing for a Yankees team that values versatility and situational matchups in its bullpen. If signed, he wouldn’t be expected to carry the load but rather complement the current cast of relievers while providing a left-handed option in critical spots. For a Yankees front office known for maximizing value in its bullpen acquisitions, Chafin could be a savvy, cost-effective addition.