Aroldis Chapman is returning to the American League East division.
Chapman, who spent seven seasons with the New York Yankees, on Tuesday agreed to a one-year deal with the Boston Red Sox worth $10.75 million, according to multiple reports. Chris Cotillo of MassLive was first to report news.
Chapman, a seven-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion, found the best way to confirm the news to MLB fans. Donning a Red Sox cap, posed for a photo next to his dog in what appeared to be his home gym, posting the picture onto his account on X (formerly Twitter).
Let’s go! pic.twitter.com/MhJ64TN6Lq
— Aroldis Chapman (@AChapman_105) December 3, 2024
It’s hard to think of a better way to confirm news. It’s also hard to think of many better free agent destinations than Boston for Chapman.
Incumbent closer Kenley Jansen is a free agent—and unlikely to return—and fellow relief pitcher Chris Martin is also ticketed for free agency.
In Chapman, Boston adds a flamethrowing southpaw who is familiar with handling the pressures of the ninth-inning role. The 36-year-old ranks third on MLB’s active career saves list with 335 in 15 years. He has not operated as a closer since 2021, though he could do so with the Red Sox, who also have three-time All Star Liam Hendriks on their roster.
In 61 2/3 innings pitched for the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2024, Chapman posted a 3.79 ERA with 98 strikeouts and 39 walks.
