RED SOX SNAG THEIR CLOSER

As a lifelong admirer of Aroldis Chapman, it’s bittersweet to see the flamethrower take his talents to the Boston Red Sox. The news that Chapman signed a one-year, $10.75 million contract with them stings deeply—not just because of the player he is, but because of what he once meant to the Bronx to me personally.

Chapman spent a good amount of time with Yankees, carving out a legacy as one of the game’s most electric closers. His blazing fastball and knack for delivering under pressure made him a key figure in many memorable Yankees moments. I never wanted to see him leave, even during his occasional struggles. Now, seeing him don the Red Sox cap is a reminder of how unpredictable and painful baseball’s rivalries can be.

Let’s go! pic.twitter.com/MhJ64TN6Lq

— Aroldis Chapman (@AChapman_105) December 3, 2024

Chapman’s recent seasons have been a whirlwind. In 2023, he split time between the Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers, where he showed flashes of the dominance that made him one of the most feared pitchers in baseball. By the time he joined the Pittsburgh Pirates last season, he was no longer the elite closer of his peak, but he remained a valuable reliever.

In 68 appearances for the Pirates, Chapman posted a respectable 3.79 ERA, struck out 98 batters over 61 2/3 innings, and recorded 14 saves. His command was as volatile as ever, but his ability to lock down key moments earned him 22 holds and a brief stint as closer. Even at 36 years old, Chapman demonstrated he can still compete at a high level.

With the Red Sox, Chapman adds another layer of intrigue to one of baseball’s most storied rivalries. He knows the Yankees all too well and has extensive experience pitching in high-stakes games against Boston. For me as a Yankee fan, the thought of Chapman toeing the rubber at Fenway Park in a Red Sox uniform is enough to stir uncomfortable emotions.

For Boston, Chapman brings not only experience but the potential to lock down late innings. Whether as a setup man or closer, his fiery demeanor and ability to induce swings and misses make him a formidable weapon.

For me, Chapman will always be a "good soldier" Yankee. Even as his career took him to other teams, I hoped he might one day return to the Bronx. Now, seeing him join the Red Sox feels like salt in the wound. Rivalries aside, I’ll continue to root for Chapman to succeed—except, of course, when he’s facing the Yankees. He’s earned that respect as one of the most electrifying relievers of this generation in my opinion.

So long, Aroldis.  Red Sox Suck.