The Boston Red Sox have come to an agreement with left-handed reliever Aroldis Chapman for a one-year contract valued at $10.75 million, according to a source familiar with the discussions. This information was shared on the condition of anonymity because the deal is pending until Chapman successfully completes a physical examination.
Chapman’s signing is promising for the Red Sox, particularly as they seek a potential closer. Current closer Kenley Jansen remains available in the free agent market, raising questions about the team’s future bullpen dynamics.
Chapman, who is 36 years old, boasts an impressive career with a 2.63 ERA and 1,246 strikeouts over 15 seasons and has played for seven different teams. He ranks 16th in MLB history with 335 saves. In the last season, he recorded 14 saves with a 3.79 ERA and a 5-5 record, accumulating 98 strikeouts in 61 2/3 innings. A proud seven-time All-Star, he also holds two World Series championships, winning with the Chicago Cubs in 2016 and the Texas Rangers in 2023.
This move comes at a critical time for the Red Sox, whose bullpen struggled last season, converting only 40% of save opportunities and ending with a 4.39 ERA. The team finished third in their division and missed the playoffs for the third year in a row, making improvements to their pitching staff essential for future success.
The addition of a proven veteran like Chapman could provide the stability and experience needed to bolster the Red Sox’s late-game performance. As fans look ahead, there is hope that Chapman’s expertise can help turn around the fortunes of the Red Sox bullpen and elevate the team’s prospects for the upcoming season.