Aroldis Chapman is available to face the Boston Red Sox on Monday evening but won't be used for back-to-back games this week. Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Yankees activate closer Aroldis Chapman, designate David Hale

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 8/17/20

On Monday, the New York Yankees confirmed that they activated closer Aroldis Chapman and designated right-hander David Hale for assignment:

Prior to tonight’s game, the Yankees made the following roster moves:
• Returned LHP Aroldis Chapman (#54) from rehab and reinstated him from the injured list.
• Designated RHP David Hale for assignment.
— New York Yankees (@Yankees) August 17, 2020

Chapman, 32 years old, tested positive for the coronavirus in July and wasn't cleared to return until the final day of that month. He hasn't yet appeared in a game this season.

Hale, meanwhile, made five appearances for the Yankees and recorded a save on Aug. 1.

Even without the fire-balling southpaw finishing games, the Yankees won 15 of their first 21 contests and sit atop the AL East standings. Chapman is available to face the Boston Red Sox on Monday evening but won't be used for back-to-back games this week:

Aroldis Chapman would pitch the ninth inning in a save situation tonight, Boone said. They won’t use him in back-to-back games this week.
— Bryan Hoch (@BryanHoch) August 17, 2020