Yankees Rumors: All-Star Pitcher Expected To Become Free Agent After 2019 MLB Season

The New York Yankees might have a big decision to make regarding one of their best players after the 2019 MLB season. A new report indicates that Aroldis Chapman is likely to opt-out of his contract after the World Series.

According to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal, a player who is friendly with Chapman believes the closer will “one million percent” forgo the remaining two years on his deal. By opting out of his contract, Chapman would be giving up a $17.2 million salary in both 2020 and 2021.

Chapman would give himself options by turning down the final two years of his contract. He could either sign a new deal with the Yankees or test the market in free agency.

The Yankees faced a similar situation with C.C. Sabathia after the 2011 season. The two sides agreed to a five-year extension when the left-hander had the chance to opt-out of his contract.

Chapman has been among the best pitchers in baseball since signing a five-year, $86 million contract before the 2017 season. Since winning a World Series with the Chicago Cubs in 2016, Chapman has posted a 2.73 ERA with 215 strikeouts in 138.1 innings with the Yankees.

Chapman was just selected to his second straight All-Star Game. He’s got a 2.45 ERA—the same ERA he had in 2018—while leading the league with 25 saves.

Because he’ll be 32 years old at the start of next season, this could be Chapman’s last chance to sign a lucrative, lengthy contract.

Craig Kimbrel was the top reliever in free agency this past offseason. He was unable to sign the nine-figure contract he was initially seeking and remained unsigned until June. Kimbrel ultimately signed a three-year, $43 million contract with the Cubs.

New York has one of MLB’s best bullpens with Chapman as its anchor. Zack Britton and Adam Ottavino both signed three-year contracts in the offseason and would be options to take over as the Yankees’ closer if Chapman heads elsewhere. Tommy Kahnle is one of four Yankee relievers with a sub-3.00 ERA and is under team control through 2021.

Dellin Betances has a 2.36 ERA and 36 saves in his career with the Yankees. Injuries have prevented him from pitching in 2019, his final year before hitting free agency.