While the Detroit Tigers need a bullpen arm, there’s a specific type of arm that would be an ideal addition. That would come in the form of a lefty closer with elite strikeout potential. Fortunately, there’s a pitcher who fits the bill.
That pitcher is Aroldis Chapman. Gia Nguyen of Sports Casting also identified Chapman as the top target for the Tigers at the deadline. “Aroldis Chapman might be the name that gets Tigers fans most excited at the deadline.” Nguyen wrote.
The seven-time All-Star and two-time World Series Champion is one of the more likely relievers to be traded at the MLB trade deadline. Between Chapman being a free agent after this season and his 37-year-old age, the Red Sox could move him if they aren’t in contention for a postseason spot by the trade deadline.
The 16-year veteran has been incredible throughout his career, posting a 2.57 ERA and 350 saves across 834 games pitched. But what makes him more incredible is how he’s still dominant this season.
Chapman has a 1.29 ERA through 38 appearances, with 15 saves and 51 strikeouts to 10 walks. He has a very strong 13.1 strikeout per nine innings, which is significantly more than any other Tigers reliever.
That strikeout rate is a huge reason why Chapman would be a perfect trade target for the Tigers. Throughout his impressive career, Chapman has a 1.091 WHIP. But this season, his 0.771 WHIP is the best of his career.
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Between his strikeout rate and his ability to limit baserunners, Chapman is one of the best relievers in the game. Finding a way to land him would be an ideal scenario for Detroit.
Not only is he a strikeout artist, but he’s a lefty. With the current top Tigers relievers, Will Vest and Tommy Kahnle, both being righties, Chapman, as a lefty, would be a great complement to the current bullpen.
Landing Chapman would be ideal for Detroit, and asa Nguyen points out, “Adding Chapman would be the kind of all-in move that signals that Detroit is serious about making a deep October run.”
There might be no better trade deadline addition for the bullpen than Chapman for Detroit. With Alex Bregman being the top third baseman option for Detroit as well, the Tigers are likely to keep a close eye on the Red Sox as the trade deadline approaches.
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