
Closer Aroldis Chapman will be one of the most sought-after players when the Boston Red Sox officially put him on the trade block.
The 38-year-old lefty has continued to defy Father Time this season. He has posted a 0.83 ERA and a 0.969 WHiP in his 21.2 innings entering Friday, notching 14 saves while striking out 29 batters with nine walks.
Trade rumors will continue to swirl around Chapman as the Red Sox fall further out of the playoff picture. Let's take a look at three potential landing spots ahead of the Aug. 3 trade deadline.
The Dodgers appeared to have taken care of their biggest weakness after signing closer Edwin Diaz to a three-year deal. Instead, Diaz made seven appearances before landing on the Injured List. He underwent surgery to remove loose bodies from his right elbow and is expected to return after the All-Star break, although it is fair to wonder if he will be able to return to form.
While Tanner Scott has been solid as a replacement, Chapman would be a drastic upgrade. He would give the Dodgers another high-octane option in the eighth inning if Diaz is healthy and lengthen the bullpen. Otherwise, Chapman would be the perfect fit at closer as the Dodgers look to win the World Series for a third consecutive year.
The Brewers are not known to make major deals at the deadline, preferring to tinker around the edges of their roster. While that approach has worked in the regular season, with the Brewers advancing to the playoffs in seven of the previous eight years, they are still looking to return to the World Series for the first time since 1982.
Overall, the Brewers bullpen has been solid, as their 3.48 ERA entering Friday ranks ninth in the majors. However, the Brewers have not been able to find consistency at the closer spot. Trevor Megill has pitched better than his ERA would indicate, but the Brewers could use a lockdown option for the ninth inning. Chapman would give Milwaukee the type of firepower they are missing in the back of their bullpen.
The White Sox have been one of the biggest surprises in the majors, leading the AL Central as they are ahead of schedule for their rebuilding process. While the White Sox have several holes if they are going to make a run at a playoff berth, general manager Chris Getz will need to balance a chance at the postseason with the long-term vision for the roster.
Chapman could be the perfect addition. He has a great deal of postseason experience and was a part of the Cubs and Rangers World Series-winning teams. He may not cost as much on the trade front as an impending free agent. Chapman would also push Seranthony Dominguez back into a setup role where he is a better fit. The White Sox have been a pleasant surprise - adding a player such as Chapman would continue that story.
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