UPDATE: Boston Red Sox closer Aroldis Chapman has just delivered an extraordinary performance, striking out four batters in a single inning during a game against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Sunday. At 37 years old, Chapman continues to defy age, showcasing one of the most dominant stretches by a relief pitcher in baseball history.
With this latest achievement, Chapman further cements his status as an elite closer, having signed a $13.3 million contract for the 2026 season just last week. He has not allowed a hit over his last 17 appearances, spanning 14 2/3 innings, dating back to July 26. This performance marks the third-longest streak of its kind since 1901, only behind Randy Choate of the Miami Marlins and Tim Byrdak of the New York Mets.
Boston manager Alex Cora expressed his admiration, stating,
“This is special. To do it at this age and where we’re at as an industry, as far as the hitters and the adjustments they make, it’s unreal.”
The Red Sox celebrated a 7-4 victory over the Diamondbacks, which also marked Cora’s 600th career win.
In a remarkable display of skill, Chapman has allowed just one earned run in his last 37 games, with the lone run coming from a homer by J.T. Realmuto of the Philadelphia Phillies on July 23. He retired 21 consecutive batters before a wild pitch allowed Ildemaro Vargas to reach first on Sunday. Chapman then sealed his 29th save of the season by striking out Jordan Lawlar, becoming only the second pitcher this year to record four strikeouts in one inning, joining Steven Matz of the St. Louis Cardinals.
Chapman’s performance has lowered his ERA to a remarkable 0.98 for the season, a feat that underscores his prowess on the mound. Red Sox starter Brayan Bello praised Chapman, stating,
“He’s so nasty, and showing people he can still do a lot of great things.”
Throughout his illustrious 16-year career, Chapman has built a reputation as a power pitcher, consistently hitting speeds over 100 mph. He recorded the fastest pitch in MLB history at 105.8 mph during his rookie season in 2010 and has clocked eight of the nine fastest pitches in the league’s history. Now, he combines that raw power with a strategic approach, masterfully locating his sliders and splitters to baffle hitters.
“This is just something that happened,” Chapman said through an interpreter. “My mentality is to go get three outs and go for a strikeout.”
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Chapman, who continues to redefine expectations for relief pitchers. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this “nasty” performance will impact the Red Sox’s standing in the league and what records he may break next.
Stay tuned for more updates on Chapman’s historic run and the Red Sox’s journey in the 2023 MLB season.
