The Los Angeles Angels traded relief pitcher Ryan Zeferjahn to the Chicago Cubs in a deal that followed a brief period of confusion regarding another Angels pitcher. For a short time on Monday, reports indicated that the Angels had traded left-hander Reid Detmers to the Cubs for a package of three prospects.
However, these reports were quickly rescinded. ESPN's Jesse Rogers reported that Detmers had not been traded to Chicago. The Cubs subsequently acquired left-hander Braxton Garrett from the Miami Marlins, apparently ending their pursuit of Detmers.
The Angels and Cubs later finalized a trade that sent Zeferjahn to Chicago. The Angels received Moisés Ballesteros and right-handed pitcher Mason McGwire in return for Zeferjahn. The Angels opted to trade one of their effective and cost-controlled relievers rather than Detmers, who remains with the team.
Zeferjahn, 28, posted a 3.66 earned run average over 51⅔ innings pitched this season, striking out 33.5% of batters faced. He had occasionally served as the Angels' closer and could potentially fill a similar role for the Cubs, especially with Daniel Palencia currently sidelined. Zeferjahn is under contract until 2030, significantly increasing his trade value.
With Zeferjahn's departure, the Angels are expected to rely more on Sam Bachman and veteran Kirby Yates for high-leverage situations. Yates is also considered a potential trade candidate before the deadline.
Detmers, 27, has a 3-7 record this season with a 4.03 ERA and 145 strikeouts. He is under arbitration control through 2028, which the Angels likely considered a key factor in their decision to retain him and demand a substantial return in any potential deal.