The Los Angeles Dodgers aren’t holding back this winter. They’re going for it all next season and their first big splash comes in the form of one of the hardest throwing relievers MLB history.
Aroldis Chapman is reportedly going to be getting dealt from the Cincinnati Red to the Los Angeles Dodgers for a pair of prospects.
Following from Fox Sport’s Ken Rosenthal.
BREAKING: #Dodgers agree to acquire Chapman from #Reds for two prospects. Deal is pending review of medical records, sources say.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 7, 2015
#Dodgers’ plan, at least right now, would be to keep both Chapman and Jansen. Build strength from back of bullpen with price of SP so high.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 7, 2015
Chapman’s stuff has hit upwards of 104 MPH on the gun on a regular basis and while he might not be installed as the closer due to Kanley Jansen’s position on the team, he will be a great addition to the bullpen.
Chapman, who will turn 28 on Feb. 28, has compiled a 2.17 career ERA and 146 saves in 164 chances with 546 strikeouts in 319 innings during his six seasons in Cincinnati. He can be a free agent following the 2016 season so this year might be just a rental for LA due to his expected pricey contract.
After he earned $8.05 million for the 2015 campaign, Chapman is projected by MLBTradeRumors.com to get $12.9 million in arbitration, as he is eligible for arbitration for a third and final time. With the Reds rebuilding following a 98-loss season and reportedly making every player available, the left-hander might be a pricey luxury to have in the back end of the bullpen. Especially if he departs after one year.
