5 free agent relievers the Chicago Cubs need on their wish list

Chicago Cubs: Top 5 free agent relievers to target – #3: Andrew Chafin

Andrew Chafin is yet another former Cub who was sorely missed post-trade deadline. Much like Tepera, the veteran left-hander experienced a career year at the Friendly Confines – and he picked up right where he left off upon joining the Athletics. In Chicago, ‘the Sheriff’ had a 2.06 ERA, which was then shaved to a minuscule 1.53 ERA in 29 1/3 innings during his time in Oakland.

During his brief stay in the Windy City, Chafin quickly became a fan favorite and rightfully so. He was seemingly lights-out every time he took the mound. Another sorely-needed veteran presence, Chafin actually recorded five saves in an Athletics uniform which set a career-high for him, further proving his value for a team in desperate need of bullpen help.

Chafin is definitely someone the Cubs need to target and be ready to make a phone call to once the lockout is over. The three-man combo of Tepera/Chafin/Kimbrel pretty much ensured the Cubs a victory if they held a lead heading into the seventh inning. Regaining that type of confidence late in games could make a dramatic difference in how the team fares in 2022.