Texas Rangers relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman (45) Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

Mets interested in former Yankees All-Star closer

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Larry Brown | Last updated 1/22/24

The New York Mets aren’t entering the 2024 season with the same zeal team owner Steve Cohen has shown in past offseasons. But that doesn’t mean the team isn’t looking to improve.

The Mets are still searching for some bullpen help and have reached out to the representatives of multiple relief pitchers, according to SNY’s Andy Martino.

Martino reported that one of the relievers the Mets are interested in is former Yankees closer Aroldis Chapman.

The Mets have expressed interest in Aroldis Chapman, reports @martinonyc.

On their strategy in the bullpen market: "Essentially, the Mets have spoken to the representatives to just about every available reliever, and still have money to spend in that area, if they see a fit."… pic.twitter.com/Eyjh3S5YXq

— SNY Mets (@SNY_Mets) January 22, 2024

Chapman, 35, is a seven-time All-Star and pitched for the Yankees from 2016-22. After a disappointing 2022 season with the Yankees in which he posted a 4.46 ERA, Chapman turned things around in 2023. He went 4-2 with a 2.45 ERA and 53 strikeouts in 29.1 innings for the Kansas City Royals. He became a hot trade chip and was dealt to the Rangers, with whom he won the World Series.

Chapman took home $4.37 million last season. It’s unclear what kind of money he would earn this offseason, but he’s desired by teams, including the Yankees’ intracity rival.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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