New Reds’ manager Price hasn’t decided Chapman’s role
By Jake Misener
On Tuesday, the Cincinnati Reds promoted from within, naming longtime pitching coach Bryan Price as the team’s next manager, inking him to a three-year deal in hopes of an immediate deep run in the postseason.
One of the biggest question marks moving forward is the role of flamethrowing closer Aroldis Chapman. Many in baseball – and in the Reds organization – have posed the question of whether or not the southpaw should be converted into a starter in coming years. Price remains undecided on his young lefty’s future role.
"“Pitchers get better by throwing innings. I haven’t changed that philosophy.”"
Chapman went 4-5 with 38 saves last season, tying a career high. He posted a 2.54 earned run average, making the National League All-Star team for the second straight season.
His 15.8 K/9 was the highest mark of his career and can largely be attributed to his devastating fastball, which regularly breaches the triple digit barrier.
At just 25 years old, Chapman is widely regarded as one of the more promising relievers in all of baseball. However, with the potential loss of Bronson Arroyo via free agency, Chapman is one of several options being explored as a potential replacement.