As the Chicago Cubs head for a boiling point in their offseason plans, the team is circling the wagons on one more addition to its bullpen. David Robertson represents a good option that the team has been in contact with.
Another former Cub who hasn't been spoken about is Andrew Chafin. The veteran lefty is another option for the team to pursue and pair with a solid combo in Porter Hodge and Ryan Pressly.
Splitting his 2024 season with the Detroit Tigers and Texas Rangers, Chafin finished the season with a solid 3.53 ERA. If he can accept a minimal commitment, the Cubs should be calling for his services.
Bullpens are always fickle, and there's never a guarantee that a pitcher can be consistent. A one-year deal could make sense for both parties, especially with Jed Hoyer's preference for contract flexibility. The offseason work is still not done, and the team is looking at different areas. However, a contract for Chafin would not seem too difficult to negotiate. At 34, it doesn't appear he will be getting a long commitment.
Signing either Chafin or David Robertson makes all the sense in the world for the Cubs. Veteran arms on short-term deals are harmless to the future of a team. It certainly goes along way in helping out the rotation and other members of the bullpen.
It will be interesting to see exactly what Jed Hoyer has up his sleeve before the start of the season. From Alex Bregman to Dylan Cease rumors, it appears that, at least at the moment, there is blood in the water for one more major addition.
This article first appeared on On Tap Sports Net and was syndicated with permission.
