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Aroldis Chapman Likely to Be Suspended 25-30 Games

By Nick Fustor

Feb 23, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; New York Yankees relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman (54) walks back to the clubhouse after he pitched in the bullpen at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 23, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; New York Yankees relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman (54) walks back to the clubhouse after he pitched in the bullpen at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Reports suggest that New York Yankees closer Aroldis Chapman is likely to receive a 25-30 game suspension from Major League Baseball for domestic violence allegations in October.  The allegations reportedly stalled a proposed trade between the Cincinnati Reds and the Los Angeles Dodgers.

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Many are expecting Commissioner Rob Manfred to issue around a 25-to-30-game suspension to the 28-year-old.  Chapman is known for his high velocity fastball and dominance at closing out games.  The lefty has a career ERA of 2.17 with 15.40 K/9 and 149 career saves.  Last season, he posted a 1.63 ERA along with a 1.94 FIP.

Feb 23, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; New York Yankees relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman (54) pitches in the bullpen at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
If Chapman gets a 25-game suspension, it would set a precedent for MLB’s domestic violence policy. Kim Klement, USA TODAY Sports /

Chapman is expected to take over ninth inning duties with the Yankees, supplanting the incumbent Andrew Miller – and forming a formidable trio with Dellin Betances in the mix.

If Chapman is indeed suspended, it means Colorado Rockies shortstop Jose Reyes could receive a similar suspension for his domestic violence allegations in November.

The move would potentially set a precedent for the way the league handles domestic violence cases in the future. Last season, Manfred decided he would have decision-making power when dealing with domestic violence issues.

Unlike in football, he can suspend players before they are formally charged with a crime. He and his advisors look at the evidence from the case and can hand down punishment before any legal action is taken. A punishment of 25 to 30 games certainly seems like the range set for ambiguous cases like this.

It remains to be seen how other more serious cases will be handled, especially ones with actual legal action taken, but for now, this pending suspension could set the stage for MLB’s domestic violence policy for years to come.

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