On Monday, the New York Yankees acquired All-Star closer Aroldis Chapman from the Cincinnati Reds for 4 minor leaguers. These are right-handed pitchers Caleb Cotham and Rookie Davis as well as infielders Eric Jagielo and Tony Renda. Chapman was available after the Los Angeles Dodgers trade fell through three weeks ago due to an investigation into accusations of domestic violence. What kind of risk is this for the Yankees?
Chapman is one of the best closers in all of baseball. Last season, he saved 33 games for a Reds’ team that only won 64 games. He added 116 strikeouts with an ERA of 1.63. Chapman has played 6 years, all with the Reds. In his career he saved 146 games, has 546 strikeouts, and an ERA of 2.17
The New York Yankees are taking a big risk with Chapman. Chapman could be suspended for up to 45 days for firing eight shots from a handgun in the garage of his home in Davie, Florida. According to ESPN, General Manager of the New York Yankees Brian Cashman said, “Certainly, there are some serious issues here that are in play. I acknowledge that’s an area clearly of concern, and I think it certainly is reflective of some of the acquisition price, and there’s risk, and I understand that.”
The Yankees have upgraded their bullpen position. The closer last season for the team was Andrew Miller but he is not Chapman. Miller saved 37 games last year but it was his first year in the closer position. He had an ERA of 2.04 and 100 strikeouts.
Chapman should be the closer for this New York Yankees team. Miller ought to be the set-up man. For whatever reason if Chapman fails to close games, at least they have Miller to step in.
The New York Yankees are better with this trade. They didn’t have to give up a lot to acquire Chapman. The four minor leaguers the Reds received may not make the big leagues while Chapman is a veteran closer. The only problem is what happens if Chapman gets suspended? Sure it’s a gamble because he might miss part of the season, but the Yankees look like they are ready to make the next step, which is to go further than the Wild-Card game. This could be the team to watch in the American League East.
What do you think of the New York Yankees acquiring Aroldis Chapman?
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