Overview
- Aroldis Chapman told ESPN on Thursday that he would only consider a trade to the New York Yankees if general manager Brian Cashman apologizes for how his 2022 exit was handled.
- Yankees manager Aaron Boone responded publicly that the club does not owe Chapman an apology and defended the decision to leave him off the 2022 playoff roster, which makes reconciliation unlikely at this time.
- Chapman has been dominant for Boston this season with a tiny ERA and perfect saves record, and he is on a one year deal with a mutual or vesting option for 2027 that ties his value to innings and a passed physical.
- Those contract mechanics and Chapman's performance make him a high-value trade candidate before the Aug. 3 deadline, but the Yankees and Red Sox rarely trade directly and the personal rift would complicate any Bronx return.
- Watch for moving parts before the deadline including Boston’s willingness to sell, medical and innings conditions on Chapman’s option, and whether contenders other than New York step forward with offers.