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MLB Hot Stove: Aroldis Chapman looking for a six-year contract

By Brad Berreman

Oct 26, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman throws a pitch against the Cleveland Indians in the 8th inning in game two of the 2016 World Series at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 26, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman throws a pitch against the Cleveland Indians in the 8th inning in game two of the 2016 World Series at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports /
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Aroldis Chapman is in line for a big free agent contract, and he has set the length of deal he’s looking for.

The importance of bullpens in major league baseball has led to inflated salaries for relievers of all types, and the market for relievers this offseason looks sure to be robust. The San Francisco Giants signed Mark Melancon to a four-year, $62 million deal on Monday, so the deals Kenley Jansen and Aroldis Chapman get could push toward the $100 million dollar mark.

On that note, Chapman told ESPN’s Marly Rivera that he is looking for a six-year deal this offseason. The flame-throwing left-hander also refuted the idea he has asked for a $100 million contract, which feels like a distinction without a difference based on Chapman’s likely market value.

Chapman had another stellar season in 2016, with a 1.55 ERA, a 0.86 WHIP, 90 strikeouts and just 18 walks over 58 regular season innings while tallying 36 saves with the New York Yankees and Chicago Cubs. He struggled during the Cubs’ postseason run, though, with a 3.45 ERA and three blown saves in seven opportunities (13 total appearances).

Chapman drew controversy with a domestic violence suspension to start last season, and for what it’s worth, the Cubs appear to have no interest in bringing him back. That could be a financial thing to some degree, but if the Cubs wanted to make a significant investment in Chapman they surely could.

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Jansen may set the high water mark for free agent closers this offseason, with multiple rumored suitors that should have no trouble meeting his potential asking price. Chapman may be waiting for Jansen to sign, which may be a good move all things considered. Jansen’s signing would help set the market for Chapman, while also possibly setting up a bidding war between the remaining teams that have been rumored to have interest in both guys.

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