According to Ken Rosenthal on Twitter, the New York Yankees have signed free agent closer Aroldis Chapman to a 5 year, $86 million deal.
This makes Chapman, 28, the highest paid closer in history with an average annual salary of $17.2 million. The previous record was set just a few days ago by Mark Melancon and the Giants, but this contract is 39% more lucrative.
The deal includes an opt-out after three years and a full no trade clause during that time. During the final two years of the contract, however, he only has a limited no-trade clause.
In 2016 for the Yankees and the World Series Champion Chicago Cubs, Chapman went 4-1 with a 1.55 ERA. In 58 innings he struck out 90 batters and walked 18, pitching to a phenomenal 0.862 WHIP.
Chapman once again joins Dellin Betances at the back end of a strong bullpen.
