Odds for Dodgers, Mets just went up in possible Andrew Chafin trade

If the New York Mets or Los Angeles Dodgers are looking to acquire relief pitcher Andrew Chafin from the Detroit Tigers at the MLB trade deadline, the likelihood of either of the National League division leaders pulling a trade for him and beating out some of the American League competition may well have just gone up.

Are the New York Mets and Los Angeles Dodgers in a better position now to make a trade with the Detroit Tigers for Andrew Chafin?

According to a tweet from Evan Petzold, who covers the Detroit Tigers for the Detroit Free Press, Chafin will not be making the trip to Toronto when the Tigers are scheduled to face the Blue Jays in a four-game series from July 28-31. Chafin is expected to be placed on the restricted list in compliance with Canada’s COVID-19 vaccination requirements.

The 32-year-old Chafin is rumored to be one of the prized bullpen trade chips at this year’s trade deadline, entering Wednesday’s play with a 2.64 ERA/2.21 FIP/1.076 WHIP in 36 games covering 30.2 innings. Chafin has allowed just 24 hits, including one home run, during his appearances this season.

In the video below, Chafin talked to Bally Sports Detroit and other reporters about his decision. He didn’t answer if he would get vaccinated if he was traded to another team and eventually had a scheduled game in Toronto during the postseason.

With this news, it’s possible that American League teams in the hunt for relief help could avoid Chafin, knowing teams like the New York Yankees still have regular-season games in Toronto and could also play there in the American League playoffs. That could set well for a team like the Mets or Dodgers, who would only travel to Toronto in the event of a World Series matchup.

Both the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets are reportedly looking for bullpen help at the MLB trade deadline. Andrew Chafin’s vaccination status could well make a deal with one of the National League teams much more logical for the Detroit Tigers.