MLB Rumors: Aroldis Chapman, Red Sox Agree to 1-Year, $10.75M Contract in Free Agency

The Boston Red Sox have reportedly fortified their bullpen with a veteran reliever.

According to ESPN's Jeff Passan, closer Aroldis Chapman and the Red Sox agreed to terms on a one-year, $10.75 million contract on Tuesday.

Chris Cotillo of MassLive first reported the Red Sox had "progressed in talks" with Chapman and were "working toward signing him."

Chapman spent the 2024 season with the Pittsburgh Pirates and put together a 5-5 record, 14 saves, a 3.79 ERA and 98 strikeouts in 61.2 innings pitched across 68 appearances.

A 16-year veteran, Chapman has also taken the mound for the Cincinnati Reds, New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers. He was a member of World Series-winning teams with the Rangers in 2023 and the Cubs in 2016.

The 36-year-old is likely to have a major role for the Red Sox, as their closer for the past two years Kenley Jansen is currently a free agent. Veteran setup man Chris Martin is also on the open market this winter.

Boston is hoping to improve its roster in a big way this offseason after it missed the playoffs for a third straight year with an 81-81 record in 2024. The Red Sox are expected to be aggressive in chasing some of the top free agents both on the mound and at the plate.

Adding Chapman is a step in the right direction for Boston as it tries to return to glory in 2025.