The Reds deserve credit for attempting to get the most out of Aroldis Chapman. Their slender closer just put together an outstanding season in relief, moving into the closer’s role and dominating over 71.2 innings, posting a 1.55 FIP and 1.52 ERA. He struck out 44% of the hitters he faced, which is a lot. The third highest rate of all time.
Given his overwhelming dominance, the Reds thought re-converting Aroldis Chapman back to a starting pitcher would be a good idea. Why contain that domination to 71 innings when it could stretch out, probably not as dominantly but still good, over 200 or so innings?
A good idea in theory but one that just hasn’t worked out as planned. After some hemming and hawing, it appears the Reds will move Chapman back to his preferred role in the bullpen for the coming season.
