Aroldis Chapman Rejects Return to Yankees, Vows Retirement Before Rejoining Team

Chapman, who spent parts of seven seasons with the Yankees from 2016 to 2022, recently voiced his frustrations with the team during an appearance on the “Swing Completo” podcast.

The hard-throwing left-hander, now with the Boston Red Sox after a career resurgence, was asked if he would consider a return to New York. His response was emphatic: “No way, not even dead. If I were told that I was being traded to New York, I’d pack my things and go home. I’ll retire right on the spot if that happens.”

Chapman’s words reflect his deep dissatisfaction with how his tenure with the Yankees ended. Despite being a three-time All-Star and a key contributor to the Yankees’ bullpen from 2017 to 2021, Chapman’s final season in New York was marked by a series of issues, including being removed from the closer role and being left off the postseason roster. These events led him to part ways with the team after the 2022 season, signing with the Kansas City Royals for the 2023 season.

Since leaving New York, Chapman has found new life in Boston, where he enjoyed one of the best seasons of his career in 2024. However, his relationship with the Yankees’ management remains strained, as he attributes much of his frustration with the organization to the decisions made by the team’s higher-ups, rather than his interactions with teammates or manager Aaron Boone.

1. A Rocky Exit from New York

Chapman’s departure from the Yankees came after a turbulent final season with the team in 2022. Once regarded as one of the most dominant closers in the game, Chapman struggled with inconsistency and off-field issues, including a leg infection from a tattoo that sidelined him for a month. His situation worsened when he was removed from his closer role and, ultimately, left off the Yankees’ roster for the American League Division Series that year. Chapman expressed feeling disrespected by the Yankees during his final years with the team. “I dealt with a lot of disrespect,” Chapman said during his podcast appearance. “I put up with a lot of things. I knew that they just wanted to find a way to get rid of me, but they didn’t know how.” He noted that, despite these frustrations, he remained professional, continuing to play and contribute to the team as best he could. Despite his issues with the management, Chapman made it clear that his relationships with his teammates, including manager Aaron Boone, were never a problem. “I got along well with all the players,” Chapman said. “Never had a problem with anybody, even the manager. We’re friends and we talk and everything. The bosses are the ones who make those decisions.” Chapman’s decision to leave the Yankees marked the end of his turbulent relationship with the team, which had begun in 2016. While the Yankees had once relied on him as a centerpiece of their bullpen, his final years with the franchise were defined by frustration and unmet expectations.

2. A Career Revival in Boston

Since leaving the Yankees, Chapman has experienced a career revival, particularly in the 2024 and 2025 seasons. After spending parts of 2023 with the Kansas City Royals and the Texas Rangers, he found a more permanent home with the Boston Red Sox, where he regained his form as a dominant closer. In 2024, Chapman posted a career-best 1.17 ERA and a 0.70 WHIP, alongside 32 saves, earning him a one-year, $13.3 million contract extension with a vesting option for 2027. Chapman’s resurgence in Boston has been nothing short of remarkable. After a period of struggles in New York, Chapman has returned to being one of the most effective relievers in the game, proving that his velocity and command were far from gone. His performance with the Red Sox has not only revitalized his career but has positioned him as one of the most reliable closers in the league once again. His success in Boston highlights the differences between his current environment and his time in New York. Chapman has flourished with the Red Sox, where he seems to have regained confidence in both his pitching and his relationships within the organization. This contrast underscores the impact that a positive environment can have on a player’s performance and mental well-being. As Chapman continues to thrive with Boston, his past with the Yankees will remain a chapter in his career that he’s eager to leave behind. His return to form has made it clear that he’s not only capable of bouncing back from setbacks but also of making a significant impact on a new team in a new environment.

3. Chapman’s Legacy and Future in Baseball

Aroldis Chapman’s legacy in baseball is already firmly established. As one of the most accomplished closers of his era, Chapman ranks among the all-time leaders in saves, with 367 career saves, the third-most among active players. His remarkable 16-year career includes eight All-Star selections, and his ability to consistently close games with overpowering velocity has made him one of the most feared relievers in the game. While Chapman’s time with the Yankees is marred by the way it ended, his overall career remains highly respected. He helped anchor one of the most effective bullpens in baseball for several years and was a key part of the Yankees’ postseason runs during his tenure. His struggles in his final years with New York do not overshadow the years of dominance he provided on the mound. Looking ahead, Chapman’s future in Boston appears bright, and with his recent extension, he will likely continue to play a pivotal role in the Red Sox bullpen for the next few years. Whether he returns to form in the coming seasons or transitions into a new role, Chapman’s experience and success in the game ensure he will remain a valuable asset for the team. Ultimately, Chapman’s career serves as a testament to his resilience and ability to adapt, even after a rocky end to his time with one of baseball’s most storied franchises. While his past with the Yankees may remain contentious, his future in baseball looks promising as he continues to excel with the Red Sox.