Aroldis Chapman believes he’s ready to help the Yankees right now. That’s why he’s upset that his organization is sending him down to Scranton.
The Yankees have sprinted out to the best start in MLB without the services of closer Aroldis Chapman. The team’s Cuban closer is anxious to join his teammates, but the higher-ups inside New York’s organization clearly have other ideas.
Instead of rushing him back to action in the Bronx, the Yankees have sent Chapman down to Scranton to get up to speed. It’s safe to say that 32-year-old reliever wasn’t overjoyed with the news that he wouldn’t be going right back onto the major league roster. His recent Instagram message posted on his way to the team’s alternate facility made it clear he’s disappointed to be making that particular trip.
Despite Chapman’s mild disappointment, this is still the prudent decision for both he and the Yankees. He’s done his best to stay in shape during his recent COVID-19 induced quarantine, but there’s no way he’s been able to throw bullpens at the rate required to go right back onto Aaron Boone’s roster.
That makes sending him to the facility in Scranton the correct, conservative decision. Team officials can keep a close eye on his work there to build his arm strength back up to what’s required to succeed at the major league level. The team’s current position atop the AL East standings means they can take their time getting their All-Star closer back to full health.
No matter what, don’t expect Chapman to stay in Scranton very long. The minute he shows team officials that he’s capable of throwing fastballs with his trademark velocity he’s going to start advocating for a promotion. The Yankees won’t resist the temptation to send Chapman back to the majors for very long.