The Royals signed veteran reliever Aroldis Chapman to a one-year, $3.75 million deal on Friday, a week after agreeing terms with the seven-time All-Star, who is coming off a lackluster season with the New York Yankees.
Chapman was once known for consistently throwing 100 mph fastballs past jaded hitters. But the lefty, who will be 35 on Opening Day, was 4-4 with a 4.46 ERA in his final season with the Yankees, who ultimately cut him off the AL Division Series roster when his actions raised questions. on his dedication to the team.
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The Kansas City Royals have struck a deal with veteran reliever Aroldis Chapman, who is coming off his worst season in his 13-year MLB career.
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Chapman had spent time on the injured list with Achilles tendonitis in May, then lost his job to closer Clay Holmes. He was back in IL in August with a leg infection from a tattoo, then missed a mandatory team practice for the playoffs.
The Royals are betting he can help what was one of baseball’s worst bullpens last season. The relievers had a 4.66 ERA, fourth worst in the majors, and the team had done little to improve this offseason until recently trading injury-prone shortstop Adalberto Mondesi and outfielder Michael A. Taylor for a trio of launch prospects.
Chapman was an All-Star just two years ago. He is 44-35 with a 2.48 ERA and 315 saves in 13 seasons.
