Aroldis Chapman’s departure from the Yankees might not have been on the best terms, but there was a hint of potential reconciliation with New York, this time with the Mets.
According to Andy Martino of SNY, there were discussions between Chapman and the Mets about a possible deal worth around $8 million, before Chapman opted for a $10.5 million contract with Pittsburgh. The plan would have positioned Chapman as the setup man for Mets’ closer Edwin Díaz, creating a formidable duo for late-game situations.
During his time with the Yankees spanning seven seasons, Chapman made 315 appearances, tallying a 2.94 ERA with 153 saves and striking out 453 batters over 294 1/3 innings (13.9 SO/9). However, his tenure in the Bronx concluded on a sour note.
Chapman’s relationship with the Yankees soured notably when he failed to attend a mandatory workout ahead of the 2022 American League Division Series against the Guardians. As a consequence, manager Aaron Boone instructed Chapman to remain in Miami, effectively ruling him out for the postseason roster at the time.
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In 2023, Chapman embarked on the season with the Royals, signing a one-year contract worth $3.75 million. He made a strong start, posting a 2.45 ERA with 53 strikeouts in 29 1/3 innings across 31 appearances. Eventually, Kansas City traded him to the Rangers mid-season, where he reunited with former Mets pitcher Max Scherzer and contributed to Texas’s historic World Series victory, marking the franchise’s first championship win.