Red Sox Make Massive Mistake Overpaying Former Yankee in Free Agency

While Red Sox fans are desperately waiting for a Juan Soto update, Boston made their first significant free-agent addition of their offseason. On Tuesday, it was reported that the Red Sox were signing left-handed reliever Aroldis Chapman to a one-year, $10.75 million deal according to ESPN. The former Yankees All-Star, who spent the majority of his illustrious career being hated in Boston, is joining the rotation for Alex Cora in his 15th MLB season.

MLB News: Red Sox Sign Aroldis Chapman

This is the second signing by Craig Breslow this offseason. The Red Sox already added Justin Wilson to the bullpen earlier in the winter. With four Red Sox relievers hitting free agency, we can expect more changes at the position too.

At age 36, Chapman is obviously not the player he once was. He will be playing for his fourth team since leaving the Yankees after the 2022 season. His stints with the Royals, Rangers, and the Pirates weren't as good as his previous All-Star seasons but he was still a solid closer last year, taking over for the struggling David Bednar. Last year, he turned in a 3.79 ERA over 61 2/3 innings for Pittsburgh, picking up 14 saves and only surrendering five leads.

In his prime, Chapman was one of the hardest-throwing relievers in the league. He may not have that fastball anymore but he was still one of the best left-handed options available.

The Red Sox finished 24th in ERA last season and went into the offseason prioritizing southpaw help. Other than Tanner Scott, there weren't too many good options for the Red Sox. Still, fans are right to be skeptical of the move considering Chapman's age and history as a Yankee.