Aroldis Chapman right where he needs to be with Kansas City Royals
Aroldis Chapman needed to find a team willing to take a one year flier on his services. He found that with the Kansas City Royals.
According to Mark Feinsand, Chapman signed a one year deal with the Royals on Thursday. He will earn $3.75 million with a chance to earn more based on performance bonuses.
Aroldis Chapman fits what Kansas City Royals need
Chapman had a rough showing in 2022. Injuries hindered his performance on the mound as he posted a 4.46 ERA and a 1.431 WHiP over his 36.1 innings, striking out 43 batters with 28 walks. He lost the closer role due to his command issues and walked away from the Yankees in a huff when he could not be guaranteed a spot on the postseason roster.
Despite those issues, Chapman still has a track record of success, notching 315 career saves and a lifetime 14.7 K/9 rate. Although he will turn 35 years old during spring training, he could still be a solid option for the ninth inning if he is healthy.
That is what the Royals are hoping for. They desperately need help throughout the pitching staff, with the bullpen a particular area of concern. Chapman, if he does return to form, would go a long way toward solidifying the relief corps. And, if he does perform as he did in the past, then the Royals will have an interesting trade chip at the deadline.
Ultimately, this is what Chapman needs. The Royals are not going to contend for anything more than the top overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft. Chapman is not going to be under any pressure to perform and can rediscover his form in a place where no one will be paying any attention.
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Aroldis Chapman needed a chance at redemption and the Kansas City Royals needed a closer. It was a perfect match waiting to happen.