Veteran left-handed reliever Andrew Chafin has opted out of his minor league contract with the Detroit Tigers and signed a one-year, $1 million major league deal with the Washington Nationals on May 1, 2025. Chafin had been performing well for the Tigers’ Triple-A affiliate, the Toledo Mud Hens, posting a 2.13 ERA and a 31.5% strikeout rate over 13 appearances.
This move marks Chafin’s third stint with the Tigers. He originally joined the team on a minor league deal in February 2025, after a season with the Texas Rangers in 2024. During his time with the Tigers in 2024, Chafin appeared in 41 games, recording a 3.16 ERA and 50 strikeouts over 37 innings.
The Nationals, who are looking to bolster their bullpen, have added Chafin to their roster, potentially with the intention of showcasing him for a midseason trade. Chafin’s experience and recent performance make him an attractive option for teams seeking veteran left-handed relief help.
In a corresponding move, the Tigers signed left-hander Nick Margevicius to a minor league deal. Margevicius, a former major leaguer who battled injuries and played internationally, is seen by the Tigers as a developmental project. The organization seems confident in its current left-handed bullpen options, including Holton, Hurter, and Guenther.
Chafin’s departure leaves a gap in the Tigers’ bullpen, but the team is optimistic about its depth and the potential contributions of its current roster. As the season progresses, the Tigers will continue to evaluate their bullpen options and make adjustments as necessary.
