There's no questioning that the New York Yankees are heading to the postseason.
Will Aroldis Chapman be on the playoff roster? That question is less clear.
Aroldis Chapman breaks down his struggles on the bump and what his role will be come postseason. pic.twitter.com/JcZJSgAV12
— YES Network (@YESNetwork) October 2, 2022
The veteran closer has struggled so much this season that the New York Post reported just a little over a week ago that the club was considering designating him for assignment before the postseason gets underway. Now, with New York's bullpen depleted by injuries, the Bronx Bombers could be forced to have a change of heart.
Chapman didn't do himself any favors in his outing Sunday against the Baltimore Orioles, giving up two earned runs and walking three batters. He followed that performance up with a solid two-strikeout inning on Tuesday, although skipper Aaron Boone didn't give the seven-time All-Star the most ringing endorsement after the game.
“Today helps” Aroldis Chapman’s chances of making the postseason roster, Aaron Boone said.
— Bryan Hoch (@BryanHoch) October 4, 2022
With Ron Marinaccio, Wandy Peralta, Zack Britton and Clay Holmes all sidelined right now, the bullpen is too thin for the Yankees to designate healthy pitchers, and Chapman is in fact healthy enough to pitch at the moment. The question now is whether or not he would be a help or a hindrance if New York keeps him around.
One thing is for sure: If Chapman makes the postseason roster, Yankees fans will be biting their nails down to the quick every time he comes out of the bullpen.
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