Aroldis Chapman of the Red Sox steers clear of another playoff disaster

Aroldis Chapman: A Roller Coaster October Experience

Aroldis Chapman has had quite the October history, which, I guess, emphasizes how long he’s been around at 37. It’s sort of remarkable.

So when the Yankees had the bases loaded recently, I can imagine Chapman having flashbacks standing there on the mound, especially with nearly 47,000 fans filling the seats. The buzz in the stadium was electric; you could feel the tension in the air.

Yet, if he was feeling any of that pressure, he didn’t show it.

Chapman shared his thoughts post-game after the Yankees’ 3-1 loss to the Red Sox in Game 1 of the Wild Card Series. “I focused on each pitch,” he said through an interpreter. “That’s how I approached it.” He was right; there was pressure, but he maintained a clear head.

The best moment for the Yankees that night? Well, probably their last. Garrett Crochet had been impressive for 7⅔ innings, and Chapman managed to clinch his eighth save of the season, an accomplishment few could match this year.

Among pitchers with at least 50 innings this season, Chapman’s .131 batting average against was the best. Yet, Paul Goldschmidt, Aaron Judge, and Cody Bellinger managed to string together three hits, loading the bases and creating a real opportunity for the Yankees. It felt like the crowd was on the verge of exploding when Giancarlo Stanton stepped up to bat.

“In moments like that, you hear nothing. It’s just you and the catcher,” Chapman reflected. “We were totally locked in.”

But perhaps Stanton was feeling the heat too—it seemed he was trying to anticipate and adjust before swinging and missing on a few tough pitches. Jazz Chisholm Jr. seemed to struggle as well, flying out without bringing in any runs.

The Yankees’ momentum quickly faded, and Trent Grisham couldn’t resist a 101.2 mph fastball. It’s those moments that can be so deflating.

I think it’s interesting that Chapman, despite all the hype, looked over at his own dugout, giving a knowing nod. It’s moments like these that show the intensity of the game.

Chapman has had his ups and downs with the Yankees, especially after his tough workout in 2022 that kept him off the playoff roster. Still, he claimed there was no extra drive to prove something against his former team. “What’s done is done,” he said. “I’m just glad I could close the game.”

As for the Yankees, they were hoping to tire out one of the better arms from the Red Sox bullpen, making them throw 24 pitches. It’s all part of the strategy.