Aroldis Chapman Says Yankees Should Apologize if They Trade for Him

Aroldis Chapman’s complicated relationship with the New York Yankees continues to make headlines, particularly as the trade deadline approaches. The left-handed reliever, currently with the Boston Red Sox, has been vocal about his disdain for how the Yankees handled his final season in New York. In a recent appearance on the “Swing Completo” podcast, Chapman expressed that he would rather retire than pitch for the Yankees again, a sentiment he first shared back in October after being left off the playoff roster for missing a mandatory practice in 2022.

Chapman’s comments have gained renewed attention this season, especially as the Red Sox appear to be potential sellers at the trade deadline. According to ESPN’s Enrique Rojas, Chapman stated, “What happened, happened. If something like this were to happen, I believe someone from this organization should apologize first.” When pressed on whether that someone should be Yankees general manager Brian Cashman, the 38-year-old pitcher responded affirmatively.

The saga of Chapman’s time with the Yankees is filled with ups and downs. His first stint in the Bronx began in 2016, but it ended midseason when he was traded to the Chicago Cubs, helping them secure a World Series title. After that remarkable season, Chapman signed with the Yankees on a five-year, $86 million deal, marking the start of a second, more prolonged engagement with the franchise. Over six seasons, he made 284 appearances, accumulating 133 of his 380 career saves and earning All-Star selections in 2018, 2019, and 2021.

However, 2022 was a challenging year for Chapman. He struggled with injuries, including Achilles tendinitis, which cost him his closer role to Clay Holmes. An infection from a tattoo also led to a stint on the injured list, and he finished the season with a career-worst 4.46 ERA. The fallout from missing that crucial practice has left a lasting mark on his relationship with the Yankees, as Chapman claims he had permission to skip the workout, while Cashman labeled it insubordination.

Since departing New York, Chapman has added another World Series ring to his collection with the Texas Rangers in 2023. His journey has included brief stops with the Kansas City Royals and Pittsburgh Pirates, but he has found renewed success in Boston, making his eighth All-Star team last year. This season, he has been impressive, allowing just one run in 19 2/3 innings of relief.

Currently, Chapman is signed to a one-year, $13.3 million deal, which includes a vesting option for 2027. Reflecting on his situation, he stated, “I’m in a position right now where I’m under contract, and I don’t have any control over my contract. I don’t have any clauses or anything with any team, but [going to New York] would be something that, first of all, I would have to talk to the manager about.” As the trade deadline looms, Chapman’s future remains uncertain, but his past with the Yankees will undoubtedly shape any potential moves.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.