Aroldis Chapman Unlikely to Pitch for Yankees Again
Aroldis Chapman, the veteran closer formerly with the New York Yankees, recently expressed his disinterest in a potential reunion with the team. His comments came during an interview on the Swing Completo Podcast.
Aroldis Chapman’s Firm Stance on Yankees Reunion
In a candid moment, Chapman, now 37, stated, “No. Not even if I was dead,” when asked if he would ever consider returning to the Yankees. This definitive rejection highlights his strong feelings about his past with the franchise.
- First stint: Traded to the Yankees in 2016; moved to the Chicago Cubs mid-season.
- Second stint: 2017-2022, with three All-Star selections.
- Career success: Achieved 124 saves and maintained a 2.48 ERA during the initial five seasons.
However, Chapman’s final year in New York was challenging. In 2022, he recorded a career-low 4.46 ERA and lost his closing position prior to the All-Star break. His season was further marred by an injury related to a leg tattoo and a lack of play during the postseason.
Reflections on His Experience
Chapman expressed feelings of disrespect throughout his last season in the Bronx. He noted, “I put up with a lot of things that whole year…They wanted to get rid of me.” Despite the challenges, he maintained a positive relationship with teammates and management, indicating he endured his struggles silently.
Recent Achievements and Future Prospects
After leaving the Yankees, Chapman pivoted his career trajectory. He signed a one-year contract with the Boston Red Sox in 2023, where he achieved significant success. Key statistics from his recent performance include:
- 2023 ERA: 1.17
- 2023 WHIP: 0.71
- 2023 Saves: 32
Chapman’s contributions helped the Red Sox secure a spot in the postseason. His overall statistics over the past three years showcase his resilience: a 2.68 ERA and 52 saves.
In August, Chapman was rewarded with a new contract extending to 2026, including a mutual option for 2027. Over his impressive 16-year MLB career, he has accumulated 367 saves.
