New York Yankees relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman. Jessica Alcheh-USA TODAY Sports

Yankees activate Aroldis Chapman off IL, Clay Holmes to remain closer

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 7/1/22

Aroldis Chapman is making his return to the New York Yankees on Friday.

Prior to tonight’s game, the Yankees made the following roster moves:

• Reinstated LHP Aroldis Chapman (#54) from the 15-day injured list.
• Placed RHP Miguel Castro on the paternity list.
— Yankees PR Dept. (@YankeesPR) July 1, 2022

Although Chapman is one of the most accomplished closers in recent memory (ranking third among active pitchers with 315 saves,) the lefty won't be back in his customary role when he returns. The closer's gig will remain in the hands of Clay Holmes for now. Holmes has dominated as the fill-in with a 4-0 record, team-leading 14 saves and minuscule 0.49 ERA and 0.73 WHIP over 35 2/3 innings pitched while collecting 38 strikeouts.

Aroldis Chapman returns to the #Yankees today in a setup role with Clay Holmes remaining as closer.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) July 1, 2022

After going through all of April, and each of his first 12 appearances this season without allowing a run, Chapman was scored upon in his last five games prior to going on the IL. Overall, he's 0-2 and has recorded nine saves while registering a 3.86 ERA and 1.64 WHIP with 15 strikeouts over 14 innings pitched.

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