Once again, the Minnesota Twins are heading into a winter where their Hot Stove might be unusually quiet. Fans are keeping their expectations low for any major moves, as ownership has become open about its lack of seriousness and focus on profit. This combination of factors makes it challenging for the front office to maneuver through the offseason, but it’s a challenge that Derek Falvey and Jeremy Zoll can still overcome. The lower-tier free-agent market could work in the Twins’ favor.
One potential cost-effective option is Andrew Chafin, who could provide not only a valuable bullpen arm but also a strong personality in the clubhouse. The Twins’ bullpen is in desperate need of improvement, and Chafin could help address that need.
MLB insider Mark Feinsand recently mentioned Chafin as a possible fit for the Twins. This isn’t the first time his name has come up in connection with the team, but it could finally be the year something materializes. The idea of adding Chafin has been in the works for a few years, dating back to the 2023 offseason, reflecting the Twins’ ongoing effort to improve their bullpen. Chafin would have been a natural fit then, and he still makes sense as someone who could help move the bullpen in the right direction.
Although Chafin signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks, he was traded to the Brewers in 2023, and after joining the Detroit Tigers last winter, he was traded to the Texas Rangers midseason. In both 2023 and 2024, Chafin proved to be a valuable bullpen arm, traded to contenders making playoff pushes, which means there’s little risk for the Twins in signing him. If he thrives, he could become a key reliever alongside Griffin Jax, Jhoan Duran, Cole Sands, and Brock Stewart, or, at worst, serve as trade bait.
Signing Chafin would also address the Twins’ lack of left-handed pitching in the bullpen. Minnesota’s lefties posted a poor 5.31 ERA and .453 opponent slugging percentage last season, while Chafin ended the year with a 3.51 ERA and a career 1.275 WHIP. While Chafin won’t be the bullpen’s mainstay, he would be a solid addition to strengthen the unit, and his contract could fit within the Twins’ budget.
Chafin has been in demand over the past two years, so the Twins will face competition for his services. However, signing him this winter could ultimately prove to be a worthwhile investment, whether he becomes a key reliever or provides value in a trade.