The Los Angeles Angels have made a notable decision as they acquired left-hander Andrew Chafin and right-hander Luis García from the Washington Nationals. In return, the Nationals received left-hander Jake Eder and minor league first baseman Sam Brown. To accommodate these new additions, the Angels designated left-hander José Quijada for assignment, which allowed them to open a spot on their 40-man roster.
Andrew Chafin, 35, began his season on a minor league deal with the Detroit Tigers before signing a major league contract with the Nationals in May. He has thrown 20 innings in the majors this year, maintaining a 2.70 ERA, although his underlying metrics suggest room for improvement. Historically, Chafin has a robust track record with a career ERA of 3.39 over 528.1 innings, with a notable 25.7% strikeout rate and solid ground ball percentages.
Luis García, 38, previously signed a minor league deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers but later joined the Nationals, where he has accumulated a 4.10 ERA. With a blend of experience, García provides the Angels with additional depth as he has pitched in previous seasons for the team.
While neither Chafin nor García is expected to dramatically transform the Angels’ fortunes, their arrival may signal a strategic move as the team currently sits four games behind a playoff spot. The Angels have struggled with their bullpen, which ranks among the bottom in the league with a 4.96 ERA. Strengthening this area could provide a critical boost as they aim for a playoff berth.
Recent history shows that the Angels have hesitated to make drastic changes or sell key players, even as they approach another potentially disappointing season. They face tough decisions ahead, particularly regarding franchise star Mike Trout, who is nearing 34 and has faced injuries in recent seasons. With the 2024 postseason aspirations in mind, the Angels may be trying to support Trout in what could be one of his last chances to return to the playoffs.
The trades involving Chafin and García appear to be calculated risks, as neither player required the Angels to part with significant prospects. Jake Eder, while once a promising talent, has seen his stock fall after undergoing Tommy John surgery. Similarly, Sam Brown, a recent draftee, has not yet emerged as a top prospect within the organization.
In contrast, the Nationals benefit from this trade, redirecting their focus towards rebuilding by acquiring prospects while moving on from expiring contracts. This approach aligns with their longer-term strategy.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Angels could continue to explore moves that bolster their roster in a quest to end a decade-long playoff drought. It remains to be seen whether they will pursue further transactions or maintain their current course, but the acquisitions of Chafin and García highlight their intent to be competitive this season despite the challenges they face.