One Out Away from $13.3 Million: Chapman’s Contract Cliffhanger
Aroldis Chapman Is One Out Away From Staying With the Red Sox in 2027
The Big Picture: A Close Call at the Trade Deadline
A few weeks ago, the Boston Red Sox and their star relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman almost went their separate ways. It was Major League Baseball’s trade deadline—the last chance for teams to swap players—and the Red Sox were having a rough season.
Why did they consider trading him?
- Chapman is getting older (he’s in his late 30s).
- The Red Sox were one of the worst teams in the league at the time.
- Teams often trade veteran players when they’re not winning, to get younger talent in return.
But then… the Red Sox went on a historic winning streak. Suddenly, they were playing great baseball again. That changed everything. Both sides decided to stick together—and it looks like the best outcome for everyone.
The Contract Puzzle: What’s at Stake?
Chapman signed a special deal last Labor Day weekend. Here’s how it works in simple terms:
| Year | What Happens |
|---|---|
| 2026 | He earns $13.3 million guaranteed—no matter what. |
| 2027 | He can earn $13 million (up to $14 million with awards) IF he hits a specific target in 2026. |
The Magic Number: 40 Innings
To unlock that 2027 payday, Chapman must:
- Throw 40 innings during the 2026 season.
- Pass a physical exam at the end of the year.
Important Point
An "inning" in baseball is made of three outs. So 40 innings = 120 outs. Chapman is currently at 39 ⅔ innings—that’s 119 outs.
He needs just ONE MORE OUT to hit the target.
Where Things Stand Right Now
- Games played in 2026: 41
- Innings thrown: 39 ⅔
- Outs needed: 1 (that’s ⅓ of an inning)
- Expected timeline: Within the next few days, assuming he gets into a game.
The Red Sox haven’t used him in a couple of games, but managers usually bring in their best relievers in tight situations. Expect to see him on the mound very soon.
Why This Deal Is a Steal for Boston
Even at his age, Chapman is still one of the best relievers in baseball. Over the past two seasons, he’s been as effective as anyone in the league.
Think of it like this:
Paying $13.3 million for a top-tier closer is like buying a Ferrari for the price of a Honda. It’s an incredible value—especially since the Red Sox don’t have to commit long-term unless he stays healthy and productive.
Step-by-Step: What Happens Next?
- Chapman pitches in a game (likely in a close game, late inning).
- He records one out (a strikeout, groundout, flyout—any out counts).
- He reaches 40 innings for the 2026 season.
- He finishes the year healthy and passes his end-of-season physical.
- His 2027 contract becomes guaranteed at $13 million (up to $14M with awards).
- He returns to the Red Sox bullpen in 2027.
Summary
- The Red Sox nearly traded Aroldis Chapman at the deadline because the team was struggling.
- A historic winning streak changed the plan—both sides wanted to stay together.
- Chapman is one out away from triggering a $13.3 million guaranteed contract for 2027.
- He’s thrown 39 ⅔ innings in 41 games this year.
- The deal is widely seen as a huge bargain for a pitcher of his quality.
- Expect the milestone to be reached in the next few days.
FAQ
What is a "vesting option" in a baseball contract?
A vesting option means a player’s contract for the next year only becomes guaranteed if they meet a specific performance goal—like throwing a certain number of innings or making a certain number of starts. If they don’t hit the target, the team can decline the option.
Why does Chapman only need one out?
He’s at 39 ⅔ innings. Each full inning = 3 outs. So 40 innings = 120 outs. He has 119. One more out = 120 = 40 innings. That’s the trigger.
What happens if he gets hurt before getting that out?
If he doesn’t reach 40 innings, the 2027 option does not vest. The Red Sox could still bring him back, but they wouldn’t be obligated to pay him $13 million. It would be a new negotiation.
Is Chapman still good enough to be a closer?
Yes. Despite being in his late 30s, he’s been elite over the last two seasons—high strikeout rate, low ERA, and still throws 100+ mph. He’s one of the most dominant left-handed relievers in the game.
Could the Red Sox still trade him after 2027?
Technically, yes—but the contract only guarantees 2027. After that, he’d be a free agent unless they sign a new deal. But for now, the focus is on locking in 2027 at a bargain price.