Aroldis Chapman shines in stellar season as he aims for reliever recognition
Aroldis Chapman, the Boston Red Sox closer, is redefining expectations at the age of 37. With a breathtaking performance throughout the season, he has showcased a mastery of his fastball that has left Major League Baseball taking notice. As the regular season approaches its conclusion, the chatter around his potential accolades is growing louder.
A Season for the Ages
This season marks what could be one of the finest chapters in Chapman’s illustrious 16-year career. While he may not finish atop the American League leaderboard in saves, his numbers are staggering: 30 saves, a minuscule 1.26 ERA, and a remarkable 82 strikeouts against just 14 walks over 57 1/3 innings pitched. This season’s walk rate is the best of his career, a testament to his newfound emphasis on fastball command.
Notably, batters have struggled to find success against his pitches. They are hitting a mere .161 against his blazing four-seam fastball, .097 against his sinker, and .167 against his slider, with a .100 average against his split-finger pitch. Such statistics highlight not only his effectiveness but also his evolution as a pitcher.
Breaking Records and Setting Standards
Chapman’s season has been nothing short of record-breaking. He achieved a personal milestone by striking out four batters in a single inning, a feat that underscores his dominance on the mound. He also managed to maintain a sub-one ERA at one point during the season and recorded 17 consecutive appearances without allowing a hit. These achievements have led many, including MLB analyst Jim Bowden, to advocate for Chapman as a frontrunner for the prestigious Mariano Rivera Reliever of the Year award.
Unanimous Recognition on the Horizon?
Given his performance, Chapman is widely considered a shoo-in for the award. His contributions have been monumental, and Bowden suggests that anything less than recognition would be a disservice to the historic nature of his season. The hope is that the voting will reflect the overwhelming impact he has had on the game this year.
As Chapman continues to impress, he recently signed a one-year extension with the Red Sox, ensuring that his journey—and the accolades that may follow—will continue in Boston. With the postseason drawing nearer, the anticipation surrounding his achievements is palpable, and fans are eager to see how history will remember this remarkable season.
