Aroldis Chapman has been nearly untouchable since joining the Boston Red Sox, proving he can still dominate hitters at the highest level. Over the past two seasons, the veteran left-hander has posted a remarkable 1.51 ERA while striking out 34% of the batters he has faced across 101 innings, according to StatMuse. Since arriving in Boston, Chapman has taken full control of the ninth inning and established himself as one of the most reliable closers in baseball.
However, his recent performances have raised a few concerns, suggesting that even the most dominant relievers can experience a temporary stumble.
Carlos Narvaez departure could be behind Aroldis Chapman’s recent struggles
Chapman entered August riding an incredible stretch of dominance. After being named the American League Reliever of the Month for July, he converted all 10 of his save opportunities while maintaining a staggering 0.75 ERA. But the beginning of August has been a completely different story, as Chapman has allowed runs in his recent appearances and currently owns a 6.00 ERA over his first three outings of the month.
One possible explanation for the sudden decline could be the blockbuster trade that sent catcher Carlos Narvaez, along with three of Boston’s top-five prospects, to the Baltimore Orioles in exchange for three-time All-Star catcher Adley Rutschman and pitcher Jake Rogers.
While Rutschman’s reputation as one of the best catchers in baseball speaks for itself, Narvaez had developed a strong working relationship with Chapman. The two appeared to be perfectly in sync, with Narvaez’s pitch-calling and understanding of Chapman’s arsenal helping maximize the veteran closer’s elite fastball-slider combination.
The numbers highlight just how effective that partnership was. In the 75 games Narvaez caught Chapman, the lefty recorded a dominant 1.16 ERA while striking out 35.1% of hitters and limiting walks to just 7.4%. By comparison, Chapman posted a 1.94 ERA with a 10.2% walk rate in the 49 games Connor Wong was behind the plate, according to StatMuse.
Chapman still has plenty of time to regain his dominant form
Despite the early struggles with Jake Rogers catching him, it is far too soon to panic. Developing chemistry between a pitcher and catcher takes time, especially for a reliever like Chapman, whose success often depends on precise pitch sequencing, location, and trust between the battery mates.
The Red Sox are also expecting a major boost soon with Adley Rutschman nearing a return from the injured list. His arrival should give Boston one of the best catching situations in baseball and provide an immediate upgrade for a lineup looking to make a serious push down the stretch.
Once Rutschman returns, Boston will likely have to make a roster decision with three catchers currently in the mix. Connor Wong could become the odd man out, potentially being sent to Triple-A Worcester while the Red Sox keep their top catching duo at the major-league level.
The connection between Chapman and Narvaez is impossible to ignore, but the acquisition of Rutschman represents a significant upgrade for the organization. When healthy, the All-Star catcher brings elite defense, leadership, and offensive production that could transform Boston’s lineup for the remainder of this season and beyond.
Still, the Red Sox coaching staff will need to find a way to recreate the level of confidence and communication Chapman had with Narvaez. Whether that comes through Rutschman, Rogers, or adjustments behind the plate, solving the closer’s recent issues will be critical.
With the American League playoff race entering its most intense stage, every ninth inning carries enormous pressure. For Chapman, rediscovering the dominant form he displayed earlier this season could determine whether Boston’s bullpen remains one of its biggest strengths — or becomes a late-game concern heading into October