The Los Angeles Dodgers are targeting superstar reliever Aroldis Chapman ahead of the MLB trade deadline, according to Yahoo Sports. The team aims to enhance its bullpen as it strives for a third consecutive championship following a successful run in recent seasons.
What happened
The Dodgers are reportedly considering a trade for Aroldis Chapman, a dominant closer currently with the Boston Red Sox. Chapman has remained effective into his late 30s, and his hard-throwing fastball and four distinct pitches keep him among the elite relief pitchers in baseball. Jeff Passan, an insider, projects a 90% likelihood of a trade involving Chapman, particularly with the Dodgers being strong contenders.[2]
“Relief pitchers often are some of the most impactful deadline acquisitions, and Boston’s closer is as effective as ever,” Passan noted.
Chapman’s contract includes only one year remaining in 2026, alongside a vesting option for 2027. Due to the Red Sox’s struggling performance, he is viewed as an available asset to any team willing to negotiate.
“Teams will climb over each other for Chapman,” added Passan.
Why it matters
A successful acquisition of Chapman could significantly bolster the Dodgers’ bullpen, which has shown vulnerabilities in recent weeks. While the team’s primary closer, Edwin Díaz, is expected to return after the All-Star break, concerns remain about his performance post-injury. Strengthening the bullpen could provide crucial depth for the postseason.[1]
With a triad of elite options, including Chapman, Díaz, and another standout, Tanner Scott, the Dodgers could reinforce their status as a top contender for the championship. This level of relief pitching could change the dynamics of the postseason.
Background
On December 28, 2015, the Dodgers struck a deal to acquire Chapman from the Cincinnati Reds, only to withdraw following legal issues regarding domestic violence allegations. The team subsequently moved on, and Chapman was traded to the New York Yankees. In 2016, the Dodgers reportedly pursued him again during free agency but were unsuccessful.[3]
Since then, Chapman has not faced any off-field controversies. The Dodgers’ renewed interest now highlights his continued effectiveness on the mound, raising the possibility of finally uniting the two parties.
What’s next
The Dodgers aim to finalize any trades before the MLB trade deadline on July 31, 2026, as they look to solidify their roster for the playoff push. Negotiations with the Red Sox are expected to intensify in the coming weeks.
