Red Sox already have a possible successor for Aroldis Chapman as former All-Star nears return
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Red Sox already have a possible successor for Aroldis Chapman as former All-Star nears return originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Since the beginning of last season, the Boston Red Sox have had one of, if not the best bullpens in the MLB. Overall, their pen is very strong, but it is headlined by one superstar, nine-time All-Star and two-time Mariano Rivera AL Reliever of the Year, Aroldis Chapman.
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However, Chapman is getting up there in age, and rumors have been surging this season that Boston will sell him at the deadline. There are those who are against it though, as they think it would leave Boston without a closer. Actually, that’s not the case.
Meet Boston’s former closer, Tanner Houck
May 12, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Boston Red Sox pitcher Tanner Houck (89) pitches first inning against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Tanner Houck has, for the most part, been a starting pitcher for Boston; he even was an All-Star as one for the Red Sox back in 2024. Though, last season, he only played five games until he needed Tommy John surgery.
Now, he’s on his way back to the majors, pitching two bullpens a week, according to Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy.
The last time he was a closer was in 2022, where he took over after Matt Barnes fell apart. That season, he posted a 5-4 record, a 3.15 ERA, 56 Ks, a WHIP of 1.183, and eight saves in 28 games as a reliever.
As he ramps up, fans are starting to believe he could reclaim his old job, and Chapman could be put on the block.
Chapman is still an option
May 20, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman (44) reacts after the final out of the ninth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
Even with that information, it’s most likely the Red Sox won’t trade Chapman, unless they’re given an offer they cannot refuse. This season, he’s posted a 2.05 ERA, 38 Ks, a WHIP of 1.210, and 21 saves in 32 games. The Sox have also won 12 in a row, and 17 of their last 19. Now in a Wild Card spot, giving up Chapman seems unlikely.
Plus, the Red Sox have a vesting option for Chapman as well, as long as he pitches 40+ innings this season and passes an end-of-year physical. He’s already pitched 30 innings this season, so it’s likely he’ll hit the quota.
So, Boston will probably keep Chapman for another year, leaving Houck in a bit of a pickle as he tries to find his role in a pitching staff filled with depth.
Houck could be Chapman’s in-house successor
Imagn Images
In reality, Chapman will probably finish this year, and probably be the closer most, if not all of next season. With that in mind, Houck’s final year of arbitration is next season as well, so if Boston doesn’t extend him, he’s a free agent.
If that's the case, Boston will likely use his performance next season as a benchmark; if he does well, they’ll re-sign him, and he’ll be their closer. If he isn’t up to par, they’ll let him walk.
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