High-leverage relievers are always in demand at the trade deadline. Left-handed relievers, especially those who routinely hit triple digits with their fastball, are worth their weight in prospect gold. Add playoff experience, including a pair of World Series titles, and such a player becomes even more valuable. The Pittsburgh Pirates have such a reliever in Aroldis Chapman.
Although Chapman is not the dominant closer he once was, he still brings value. His command has taken a step back this season, but he can still throw 103 mph, as demonstrated when he fired a fastball by Sean Murphy to set the all-time strikeout mark for left-handed relievers. This season, he has posted a 3.90 ERA and 1.600 WHIP over 30 innings, striking out 49 batters with 28 walks. He could still bolster a contending bullpen.
The Pirates are on the edge of the playoff hunt, but if they fall out of contention, Chapman will be a valuable trade chip for the July 30 trade deadline. Here are three potential landing spots for the lefty reliever:
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Kansas City Royals
There is a bit of irony in the Royals as a landing spot for Chapman. The Royals traded him to the Rangers last year for pitcher Cole Ragans and minor league outfielder Roni Cabrera. Royals general manager J.J. Picollo has stated that the Royals are looking to upgrade their bullpen and outfield, and Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported that the Royals are prioritizing bullpen help over outfield upgrades. Not only do the Royals need another high-octane arm in the bullpen, but their left-handed relievers have struggled. Bringing Chapman back could make sense.
New York Mets
The Mets have gone from likely sellers to playoff contenders. Although Grimace has worked wonders, the Mets have holes to fill to be legitimate postseason contenders. One of those holes is in the back of the bullpen. Edwin Diaz has been inconsistent this year, while lefty relievers Jake Diekman and Danny Young have been middling at best. Chapman, with his extensive experience in the ninth inning, would be a solid fallback option should Diaz continue to struggle. He would also lengthen the bullpen, solidifying the seventh or eighth inning once Diaz returns to form.
Seattle Mariners
The Mariners may be the only team over .500 in the AL West, but that does not mean everything is perfect in Seattle. Jon Morosi from MLB Network reported that the Mariners are looking for an everyday bat and bullpen help. A left-handed reliever would make sense, as Tayler Saucedo is the only lefty in the Mariners’ bullpen. Chapman would also add playoff experience to the roster, joining Ryne Stanek to help guide the young bullpen through October.
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