2 weeks agoBoston Red Sox closer
Aroldis Chapman picked up the save in Saturday's 13-9 win over the Cardinals.
Cooper Criswell came on for the Sox in the ninth with a 13-6 lead, but allowed three hits and three runs to score before exiting the game with two runners on. Chapman walked the first batter to load the bases, but coaxed a game-ending double play from Cardinals catcher
Ivan Herrera to secure the win and record the save. It was the lefty's second save of the season, now with no runs allowed in three appearances to go along with a 2:2 BB:K. The veteran racked up 14 saves last season for the Pirates, and as Boston's primary closer, he should surpass that total with ease so long as he keeps performing well.
--Jarod Rupp - RotoBallerSource: ESPN
3 weeks agoBoston Red Sox relief pitcher
Aroldis Chapman finally received a save opportunity as the team looked to end their four-game losing streak on Wednesday. The veteran southpaw was called upon to hold a three-run lead against the Baltimore Orioles tough lineup. It didn't go perfect for Chapman as he did walk one batter, but he also struck out one hitter as well. He eventually earned his first save of the season and fantasy managers are hopeful for many more to come. The organization said coming into the season that Chapman would be the primary closer, but they also wouldn't be afraid to use him earlier in the game if needed. That being said, Chapman might not get all the save chances in Boston, but he's still worth rostering in most leagues where saves matter.
--Andy Webb - RotoBallerSource: MLB.com
3 weeks agoBoston Red Sox relief pitcher
Aroldis Chapman was recently named the primary closer heading into the regular season, according to manager Alex Cora. Well, there's still 161 more chances for Chapman to get a save, but he didn't get that chance on Thursday. Instead, Chapman was called upon to face left-handed slugger
Corey Seager in the eighth inning. It's worth noting that the game was tied when Chapman came in which could be part of the reason why they decided to use him in that spot. Afterwards,
Wilyer Abreu smacked a three-run home run and right-hander
Justin Slaten was called upon to close out the game. Chapman will certainly get his save chances, but this isn't quite a full-time closer role like the organization claimed it was a few days ago. Fantasy managers who have Chapman rostered should keep him as he'll likely still get a majority of the save opportunities.
--Andy Webb - RotoBallerSource: mlb.com
4 weeks agoBoston Red Sox left-handed relief pitcher
Aroldis Chapman will operate as the primary closer to begin the season, according to manager Alex Cora. As expected, Chapman has won the closer competition in Boston, but he could pitch in different spots as well. Cora confirmed that Chapman could pitch in the seventh or eighth inning if the matchup is right. If that happens,
Liam Hendriks or
Justin Slaten could see the occasion save chance. For now, fantasy managers should expect Chapman to get the bulk of the save chances in Boston to start the season.
--Andy Webb - RotoBallerSource: Ian Browne
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