MLB: Top 5 relievers in the AL and NL Championship Series

Aroldis Chapman

By most measures 2017 was the worst year Chapman has had since his rookie year of 2011. He re-signed with the Yankees last off-season for $86 million over five years, the largest contract ever given to a relief pitcher. (They had traded him to the Cubs in 2016 where he earned a World Series ring.)

He missed five weeks in May and June with an injury. Then in August his fastball command abandoned him, and opposing batters burned him for a .961 OPS. He regained form in September and hasn’t allowed a run to score since August 25.

Most importantly, Chapman is on top of his game as the Yankees prepare to take on the Astros. His legendary fastball averages 100 MPH and tops out at 104 MPH. His unparalleled velocity must be seen to be believed.