The Boston Red Sox locked up their closer by striking a deal that keeps Aroldis Chapman in uniform beyond 2025.
Chapman signed a one-year, $13.3 million extension with a vesting option for 2027, choosing stability in Boston over the open market, where his strong season would have made him a top free-agent target.
Asked why he committed early, Chapman did not hesitate.
"I wanted to stay here," he said through interpreter Carlos Villoria Benítez. He pointed to the camaraderie in the clubhouse and the support staff as reasons the choice was easy, as reported by the Boston Herald's Mac Cerullo.
Chapman added that the group's chemistry made his decision simple.
"First and foremost, I feel like my teammates, the chemistry that we have here is unique," he said. "They made the decision easy for me to stay here."
Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow said the left-hander's positive remarks about Boston encouraged him to begin conversations. He explained that when a player is vocal about his commitment and the fit makes sense, it is worth pursuing. Breslow added that talks wrapped up quickly once Chapman's interest was clear.
The new pact gives Chapman a raise from his current $10.75 million deal while ensuring Boston avoids questions about its ninth-inning role heading into 2026.
Since leaving the Yankees in 2022, Chapman has bounced between the Royals, Rangers, and Pirates, and the agreement marks a shift toward stability after those frequent moves.
Age has not dampened Boston's confidence either. Breslow said Chapman's preparation and conditioning set him apart from most players approaching their late 30s.