Why Yankees wouldn’t be ‘enthusiastic’ about reunion with All-Star closer originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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Even if it makes sense for their current roster needs, the New York Yankees will not be making a trade for their former All-Star closer.
The left-hander departed the club on bad terms, and it’s clear he is not that fond of the Yankees organization.
Aroldis Chapman is still throwing gas for the Boston Red Sox, but could be a trade candidate at this year’s deadline because of his club’s struggles.
“Chapman’s contract includes a $13 million option for 2027 that vests with 40 innings this year, so he’s not really a rental, which could appeal to some teams,” Mike Axisa of CBS Sports wrote Wednesday. “Even at age 38, Chapman has again been out-of-this-world good this season.”
Meanwhile, the Yankees have had bullpen troubles, including with closer David Bednar, who runs himself into trouble more often than not.
New York’s front office would be wise to target relievers for its postseason run, but Chapman is not the right guy.
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“On the field, a reunion with the Yankees makes sense, though I don’t think either side would be enthusiastic about it,” Axisa added.
During the offseason, Chapman openly spoke badly about the Yankees, saying he would rather retire than wear the pinstripes again.
Sure, he’s a lockdown closer that the Yankees could utilize, but there are serious questions about how adding him would impact the clubhouse.
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