Ever since his time with the Chicago Cubs, reliever Andrew Chafin has consistently worn T-shirts that say “Failed Starter.”
However, few, if any were aware of the term’s actual origins.
Chafin continued to wear the T-shirts during his time with the Oakland Athletics and Detroit Tigers.
Now back where he started with the Arizona Diamondbacks, Chafin finally got a chance to explain the origins of his famous and hilarious T-shirts.
The MLB Players Association posted a video on Twitter of Chafin explaining the history behind the “Failed Starter” T-shirts.
Chafin explains in the video that the intent is to draw a few laughs from fans and bring some smiles to fans’ faces.
For @Dbacks reliever Andrew Chafin, "Failed Starter" is a name he wears proudly on his sleeve (or, well, shirt). Hear more about the tee's origin and why @BigCountry1739 likes seeing it put a smile on fans' faces. pic.twitter.com/HXTr6tgxjK
— MLBPA (@MLBPA) June 15, 2023
Chafin revealed that when he was with the Cubs, he noticed some T-shirts that said “Coach” or “Baseball Player.”
He then decided that it was time for the relievers on the team to have something similar.
Chafin randomly decided that “Failed Starter” made perfect sense for him.
And since then, the veteran left-hander has pitched quite well and has become a viable option out of each bullpen he has been a part of.
And so, Chafin was able to get the shirts manufactured and began to wear them every day since.
He says he enjoys seeing people laugh and smile when they see him wearing his famous T-shirts.
Chafin also says it brings joy to him to see people having so much fun with something so silly and ridiculous.
The 32-year-old has continued to wear the shirts and has posted a 2.96 ERA this season.
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