The Boston Red Sox cruised into the All-Star break on a 10-game winning streak, giving them some time to recuperate before they return and look to get back to their winning ways. One guy who won’t have as much time off is All-Star closer Aroldis Chapman.
Chapman is one of Boston’s three All-Stars alongside Alex Bregman and Garrett Crochet. Whereas both of those guys won’t be partaking in the All-Star Game on Tuesday night, Chapman is available to be used for the American League in this star-studded clash.
In his first season with the Red Sox, Chapman has been a revelation at the back of their bullpen. In 41 appearances, Chapman has a 3-2 record and 17 saves to go along with a 1.18 ERA and 58 strikeouts. Simply put, he’s been nothing short of sensational.
Considering how Chapman hadn’t been an All-Star since 2021, some folks were skeptical when Boston’s front office handed him a one-year, $10.75 million contract in free agency. To this point, though, Chapman has been arguably the best reliever in the American League.
While Chapman has been involved in trade rumors this season, the Sox’s recent win streak points to them being buyers at the upcoming trade deadline. Despite Chapman seemingly being set to stay put, he revealed on Tuesday that he has not had any discussions with Boston about a potential contract extension.
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“Aroldis Chapman said he hasn’t talked to the Red Sox about any contract beyond this season,” Rob Bradford of WEEI shared in a post on X.
While Chapman has been phenomenal this season, it is worth noting that he is already 37 years old, which could factor into Boston’s decision not to commit to him for the long term just yet. If he keeps pitching like this, though, there’s no doubt the front office will want to keep him in town.
A contract extension may not be in the cards, so for now, the Red Sox are going to ride the wave with Chapman for as long as they can. Boston will be back in action on Friday when they kick off a three-game series against the Chicago Cubs.
