Aroldis Chapman Declares: “I’d Rather Retire Than Rejoin Yankees”
URGENT UPDATE: Aroldis Chapman has made shocking remarks about his relationship with the New York Yankees, stating he would “retire on the spot” rather than play for them again. This explosive declaration came during a recent appearance on the “Swing Completo” podcast, where he opened up about his contentious past with the team.
Chapman, who enjoyed a significant resurgence last season as the closer for the Boston Red Sox, expressed deep frustration with the Yankees, where he played from 2016 to 2022. When asked about the possibility of returning to New York, Chapman emphatically replied, “No way, not even dead,” adding that he would immediately “pack my things and go home” if traded back to the Yankees.
His comments are particularly striking given his previous role as a three-time All-Star and a key figure in the Yankees’ bullpen during their postseason runs from 2017 to 2021. However, after a tumultuous 2022 season marked by personal and professional challenges, Chapman was left off the Yankees’ roster for the American League Division Series. He later signed with the Kansas City Royals in January 2023.
“I dealt with a lot of disrespect [with the Yankees],” Chapman said. “I knew that they just wanted to find a way to get rid of me, but they didn’t know how.”
Despite his grievances, Chapman clarified that his issues were not with his teammates or manager Aaron Boone, with whom he maintained a good relationship. “I got along well with all the players,” he noted, emphasizing that the problems lay with the team’s management.
Chapman, now 37, has seen a remarkable rebound in performance this season with the Red Sox, achieving a stellar 1.17 ERA and 32 saves—both career bests. His success led to a lucrative new contract in August, securing a $13.3 million deal for 2026, which includes a vesting option for 2027.
With a total of 367 career saves in his 16-year career, Chapman ranks among the top active players in Major League Baseball. His recent statements have reignited discussions about the dynamics between players and management in professional sports, highlighting the emotional toll that such experiences can take on athletes.
As Chapman continues to excel in Boston, the baseball world will be watching closely to see how his relationship with the Yankees evolves, particularly amid ongoing speculation about team roster changes and player acquisitions. For now, his message is clear: the Yankees are off the table.
