Chicago Cubs: Trade grades for every move following a hectic deadline

Chicago Cubs cashed in on the dominance of Andrew Chafin in the late innings

After acquiring Andrew Chafin at the 2020 deadline, the Cubs were able to get a dominant season from the lefty for virtually all of 2021. Chafin became as reliable as a relief pitcher could get, faltering very few times, and quickly becoming a fan favorite. The mustachioed lefty was a vital part of what became a three-headed monster at the back end of the Cubs bullpen and became a coveted trade target of just about every contender at the deadline.

The Cubs found a trade partner in the Oakland A’s and got quite an appealing haul. The Cubs received 26-year-old Greg Deichmann and 21-year-old starter Daniel Palencia. Deichmann is a very well-rounded hitter that has great power, discipline, and a decent hit tool. He has fantastic numbers in the minors this year and should be in Chicago next year. Palencia is more of a lottery ticket, but with a high-90’s fastball and a good curveball, there’s some development that could be done there.

Chafin was a fun player and character to watch this season, but Jed Hoyer was able to get fantastic value for the lefty. Deichmann and Palencia each have solid 40+ FV ratings which means they could both turn into everyday contributors to the team in the future. Losing Chafin is a shame, but the return more than makes up for it.

Grade: A