Yankees get All-Star closer Aroldis Chapman from Reds for 4 minor leaguers

The Cincinnati Reds recently traded Chapman to the Yankees in exchange for minor-leaguers right-handers Caleb Cotham and Rookie Davis and infielders Eric Jagielo and Tony Renda according to ESPN. As he was not charged with domestic violence due to insufficient evidence, there is still the likelihood that Chapman could still be suspended for up to 60 days by the Major League Baseball for his actions regarding this incident.

Sources: #Marlins also tried to acquire Chapman.

Cuba’s Chapman had a 1.63 ERA in 65 appearances last season, when he led the majors with 15.74 strikeouts per nine innings.

Both are mid-level prospects at best, and neither should be considered a centerpiece in a trade for a pitcher the caliber of Chapman. He struck out 116 batters in 66.1 innings and finished with 4-4 record.

“I acknowledge that it’s an area of concern, certainly reflected in the asking price”, he said. Failing to add another quality arm to its group of aging and injury-prone starters, the Yankees have adopted the Kansas City Royals’ strategy of shortening the game to six or seven innings with a lights-out bullpen. Chapman most likely will start the season on suspension, but the suspension could work in the Yankees favor. Cashman is smart enough to be aware that the issue with his newest acquisition will be resolved. “Several reporters note that the Yankees anticipate a suspension for Chapman”, Sports Illustrated explained.

Though the Yankees have tended to be skeptical about taking on controversial players, or for that matter retaining one. He served as the Yankees closer last year after signing a four-year, $36 million contract.

They gave in and all was forgiven. Instead, now, he’ll play in the Bronx, after the Yankees sent four mediocre prospects to the Reds for him yesterday. How long can Mark Teixeira, A-Rod and Carlos Beltran be expected to carry the load? Chapman was on the hill, and proceeded to strike out the side in the final frame, hoping to give the NL a chance to make a comeback.

There is reward, too: the best bullpen in baseball. The Yankees in that respect now have that version of a trio that can win those late inning games, assuming they stay healthy.

Chapman is eligible for free agency after next year’s World Series.

There was talk earlier in the offseason that the Yankees were looking to possibly move Miller for a starting pitcher, but Cashman is intent on keeping all three relievers as a “real force at the back of our bullpen”.

The Yankees just acquired star closer Aroldis Chapman.