Latest Update
An alleged domestic violence issue that reportedly involved “gunshots” and “choking” may now kill the agreed upon deal between the Reds and Dodgers for closer Aroldis Chapman.
According to a report by Tim Brown of Yahoo Sports, Chapman allegedly fired eight gunshots in the garage of his Miami-area home following an October argument with his girlfriend in which she told police he “choked” her and pushed her against a wall, according to police reports obtained by Yahoo Sports.
Police interviewed multiple people, including Chapman, Chapman’s girlfriend, her brother and a man identified as Chapman’s driver, according to the report. No arrests were made “due to conflicting stories and a lack of cooperation from all parties involved,” the report said.
Chapman’s attorney denies the charges, but MLB is investigating and the Dodgers are unsure if they still want to proceed with the deal.
Original Report
The Los Angeles Dodgers have just acquired LHP Aroldis Chapman from the Cincinnati Reds according to Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports.
The Reds will receive two yet to be named prospects for their four-time All Star closer and the deal is pending physicals. Top prospects Julio Urias, Corey Seager and Jose De Leon are reportedly not in the deal.
Chapman, 27, saved 33 saves last season and posted 1.94 FIP and a 1.63 ERA. In 65 games (66.1 IP), he struck out 116 batters, good for 15.7 K/9.
December 7, 9:00 AM
Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports Tweeted that the Los Angeles Dodgers are in serious talks with the Cincinnati Reds for left handed closer Aroldis Chapman.
The Dodgers failed in their attempts to sign relievers Darren O’Day (Orioles), and Ryan Madson (Athletics) this weekend and have now turned to the trade market to bolster their bullpen.
Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports initially reported that the Reds were very motivated to move Chapman during the Winter Meetings as they attempt to rebuild.
Jon Heyman of CBS Sports added that the Reds have made everyone available, including Todd Frazier (Twitter).
Chapman is in his last year under team control and is projected to make around $13 million through arbitration.
The Astros were also in talks for the Cincinnati flamethrower, however the two teams had trouble matching up and talks broke down.
The Dodgers already have Kenley Jansen, who many consider an elite closer, so having both those shutdown relievers would give them the best 8th and 9th inning combination in baseball, hands down. Jansen is also in his last season under team control.
In 2015, Chapman went 4-4 with 33 saves, a 1.94 FIP and a 1.63 ERA. In 65 games (66.1 IP), he struck out 116 batters, good for 15.7 K/9.
