After contracting COVID-19 before the start of the season, Aroldis Chapman has been cleared to join the team. While the Yankees haven’t imploded in the bullpen they certainly missed their closer in the 9th inning of close games. The news was broken by ESPN’s Marly Rivera earlier today.
The Yankees have their bullpen replenished and with uncertainty regarding Tommy Kahnle, it’s good to have another lockdown arm back. This takes the pressure off of Zack Britton and allows for the Yankees to have him in his usual setup or middle relief roles. With more rest for your relievers, you can have security if a starter goes down or gets shelled early.
The bullpen shapes up to be Adam Ottavino and Zack Britton as the setup arms and Aroldis Chapman closing, though we don’t know if Aaron Boone plans to use him sparingly at first as he did with DJ LeMahieu or if he will just spring him into action.
It’s great to have Chapman back, and the Yankees look even better as they size up against their fierce rivals in the Boston Red Sox.