Cubs Acquire Lefty Andrew Chafin From D-backs

Image credit: Andrew Chafin (Christian Petersen/Getty)

The Cubs added a little bit of help for their bullpen on Monday, just before the trading deadline, by acquiring lefty Andrew Chafin from Arizona in exchange for a player to be named later. Chafin adds to the Cubs’ deadline haul of Jose Martinez (from the Rays) and lefthander Josh Osich (Red Sox).

The move—along with the acquisition of Osich—also gives the Cubs more choices against lefties. Entering Monday, the only two southpaws in their pen were Jose Quintana and Kyle Ryan.

Nov. 6 Update: Minor league infielder Ronny Simon has been announced as the player to be named later.

CUBS ACQUIRE:

Andrew Chafin, LHP
Age: 30
Though he hasn’t been particularly effective this season, albeit in a small sample, over his career Chafin has held lefties to a .616 OPS. He works primarily with a four-seam fastball and a sinker—both thrown in the low 90s—and a slider in the low 80s. The slider has been particularly effective this season, having induced swings and misses at a rate of 52%.

 

D-Backs Acquire:

Ronny Simon, SS
Age: 20

Simon signed with the Cubs for $10,000 in 2018 as an 18-year-old, two years older than when most international prospects sign. He struggled in his pro debut after signing, but hit .333/.411/.571 with 27 extra-base hits and 14 stolen bases in a repeat season the Dominican Summer League in 2019. Simon is a bit of a flyer as a DSL performer who was old for the level. He has a decent approach and optimistic scouts think he has a chance to hit. He’s a shortstop now but profiles as a second baseman. Simon may develop into a prospect, or he may fail to reach full-season ball altogether. He should make his stateside debut with the D-backs in 2021.