Red Sox bolster bullpen with signing of Aroldis Chapman

Photo Credit: Pittsburgh Post Gazette

With the Winter Meetings quickly approaching, the Red Sox were busy improving their bullpen on Tuesday. According to MassLive's Chris Cotillo, the Red Sox have signed seven-time All-Star Aroldis Chapman to a one-year contract. The deal which is still pending a physical is worth $10.75 million.

The former Yankee is coming off a productive season with the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he appeared in 68 games. During the 2024 campaign, Chapman posted a 3.79 ERA and struck out 98 batters. The 36-year-old also got some save opportunities after David Bendar was removed from the closer's role and converted 14 of his 19 chances. 

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While Chapman's fastball still averages 99 miles per hour, he sometimes struggled with his control last season. He walked 39 batters, the second-highest total of his career. Despite his increased walk rate, Chapman was still able to work out of jams, and when he was on, he was lights out. 

Although the Red Sox bullpen is far from set, Chapman has been one of the best relievers in baseball during his career. He spent seven years with the Yankees and has plenty of experience in high-leverage situations. The Cuban native has recorded 335 saves and won one World Series. The Red Sox will be Chapman’s seventh team. He has also played for the Cincinnati Reds, Chicago Cubs, Texas Rangers, and the Kansas City Royals. 

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Over the last few weeks, the Red Sox have focused on the bullpen. They are expected to lose two key arms, Kenley Jansen and Chris Martin, in free agency. With Chapman in the mix, they now have a pitcher they can rely on to help out Liam Hendricks, who is a question mark after undergoing Tommy John surgery.