Tigers losing fan favorite reliever to Nationals shows Detroit's lack of faith

The Detroit Tigers' bullpen is honestly in a pretty good spot. As group, their 2.74 ERA is the fourth best in baseball and they mercifully just got rid of one of their weakest links after finally deciding to designate Kenta Maeda for assignment. However, Andrew Chafin's latest move certainly could be a blow to their depth at the position.

Tigers fans love Chafin. He has a unique look and way of carrying himself that has endeared himself to fans, and it doesn't hurt that he knows how to miss bats. Detroit decided to bring Chafin back this past offseason on a minor league deal, and after he failed to make the team in camp he went to Triple-A and pitched well down there.

Unfortunately, pitching well meant that once Chafin had the opportunity to opt out of his deal with the Tigers, he had a market for his services. That's exactly what transpired as the Nationals signed Chafin to a big league deal on Thursday evening.

Tigers' loss is Nationals' gain as Andrew Chafin lands with Washington on major league deal

It is pretty odd that Chafin didn't get a shot with Detroit in the big leagues this year. Over 13 appearances at Triple-A Toledo this season, Chafin has posted a 2.13 ERA with 17 strikeouts in 12 2/3 inning of work. With Maeda gone, it felt like slotting Chafin into his spot on the roster was an easy move to make.

Unfortunately, because Chafin was an Article XX(b) free agent due to how much service time he has (at least six years) and his roster status last year, he could opt out of his deal. He did just that and landed himself an upgrade.

At the end of the day, the Tigers have a lot of lefties in their bullpen and it's possible using that spot on a righty is the correct choice. Still, relievers of Chafin's quality are tough to come by regardless of their handedness this time of year, and letting him go without a fight certainly feels a bit off.

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