Red Sox Add Former All-Star Closer Aroldis Chapman to Bullpen
Boston has reportedly signed left-handed reliever Aroldis Chapman to a one-year contract, a source familiar with the negotiations said Tuesday.
The deal is worth $10.75 million and will become official after Chapman completes a medical examination.*
With Kenley Jansen preparing to test the free agent market, Chapman could step into the closer role for the Red Sox. The 36-year-old has a 2.63 ERA with 1,246 strikeouts throughout his 15 seasons in the majors. His 335 saves place him 16th all-time in MLB history.
Last season, Chapman went 5-5 with a 3.79 ERA and 98 strikeouts in 61 2/3 innings.
The two-time World Series champion has played for seven teams, most recently with the Kansas City Royals, where he spent the second half of the 2023 season.
Boston’s bullpen struggled throughout last season, blowing 31 of 71 save opportunities, resulting in a collective ERA of 4.39. This contributed to the team’s third-place finish in the American League East and a third consecutive season without a playoff berth.
Theordan had a good 2022 season , averaging 2 pts per game ,which is pretty good
What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of the Red Sox signing Aroldis Chapman?
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**Host:** Joining us today to discuss the Red Sox’s latest move is baseball analyst, John Smith. John, thanks for being here.
**John Smith:** My pleasure.
**Host:** The Red Sox have reportedly signed former All-Star closer Aroldis Chapman to a one-year deal. What are your thoughts on this acquisition?
**John Smith:** It’s a significant move for the Red Sox bullpen, no doubt about it. Chapman brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of closing out games. He’s a power arm who can intimidate hitters, which is exactly what Boston needs after their struggles last season.
**Host:** Many see Chapman as a potential replacement for Kenley Jansen. How do you see him fitting into the Red Sox bullpen dynamic?
**John Smith:** Jansen’s departure leaves a void, but Chapman has the potential to fill it. He’s a proven closer with a lot of gas left in the tank. However, it’s important to remember Chapman’s ERA last season was higher than his career average. Red Sox fans will be hoping for a return to his dominant form.
**Host:** So, do you think this is a good move for the Red Sox? Will Chapman help them contend for a playoff spot?
**John Smith:** Only time will tell, but on paper, it’s a step in the right direction. The Red Sox bullpen desperately needed a reliable closer, and Chapman has the pedigree to be that guy. If he can stay healthy and return to form, this signing could be a game-changer for Boston.
