Cuban baseball star Aroldis Chapman has ensured his stay with the Boston Red Sox by surpassing 40 innings pitched in the 2026 season, triggering an automatic $13 million contract option for 2027. This news was reported by baseball journalist Francys Romero.
The vesting clause required the left-handed pitcher to reach the innings threshold during the season to activate the option; otherwise, the team would only owe a $300,000 buyout.
Chapman not only met the minimum requirement but exceeded it significantly, with 41 appearances, 27 saves, a 2.04 ERA, and 50 strikeouts in 2026, cementing his status as one of the league's most dominant closers.
The deal will be finalized after the player undergoes a physical examination at the end of the regular season. "Chapman will have a physical exam at the season's conclusion, and if he remains healthy, the deal will be completed," Romero specified. The contract was negotiated by The Team agency.
The contract's foundation with Boston dates back to December 2024, when Chapman agreed to a one-year, $10.75 million deal for the 2025 season.
Following a successful season, on August 31, 2025, he extended his contract with Boston for an additional year at $13.3 million for 2026, including the vesting option for 2027. The total potential value of the 2026-2027 package is $26 million.
Chapman's Record-Breaking Season
The 2026 season has been historically significant for Chapman beyond financial aspects. On July 3, the left-hander broke the all-time strikeout record for a reliever in Major League Baseball, reaching 1,364 and surpassing Hoyt Wilhelm's long-standing mark.
Later in July, he was named the American League Reliever of the Month, underscoring the consistent high level of performance he has maintained throughout the season.
Chapman, who defected from Cuba in 2009 and made his MLB debut with the Cincinnati Reds in 2010, has also played for the Yankees, Cubs, Royals, and Pirates before joining Boston.
With the 2027 option now activated, the Cuban closer is set to continue making baseball history in the majors for at least another season.
Insights into Aroldis Chapman's 2027 MLB Contract
What criteria did Chapman meet to activate his 2027 contract option?
Chapman needed to pitch over 40 innings during the 2026 season, which he accomplished, thus triggering the automatic $13 million option for 2027.
What notable achievements did Chapman accomplish in the 2026 season?
Chapman broke the all-time strikeout record for a reliever and was honored as the American League Reliever of the Month in July 2026.