At 37, Aroldis Chapman is having one of the best seasons of his career with the Boston Red Sox, making a strong case for Cy Young votes. Relievers rarely earn recognition for the award—only nine relief pitchers have won the Cy Young since 1974, with the last being Eric Gagné in 2003.
This season, Chapman’s numbers rival or surpass Gagné’s Cy Young 2003 season. Through early September, Chapman owns a 1.00 ERA (vs. Gagné’s season 1.20), a higher ERA+ of 417 (vs. 337), and a 4–2 record, all in fewer innings—54 across 59 appearances. He has already accumulated 3.3 WAR. Chapman has struck out 77 batters while holding opponents to a .130 average. Advanced metrics underline his dominance, including a .165 wOBA and he hasn’t allowed an earned run since July 23, a hitless streak spans 16 consecutive outings.
Chapman’s August was historic. He posted a 0.00 ERA over 11 innings in 12 appearances, converting all 8 save opportunities, allowing only one walk, striking out 14, and giving up no hits. This performance earned him the American League Reliever of the Month award, joining countrymen Raisel Iglesias who won the award for the National League.
Compared to recent seasons, 2025 represents a major resurgence. Chapman posted a 3.79 ERA in 2024 and a 3.09 ERA in 2023. His velocity remains historic—he set a Red Sox record this year with a 103.4 mph fastball and holds the Guinness World Record for the fastest pitch in MLB history at 105.8 mph, set in 2010. On July 1, he notched his 350th career save.
Chapman recently signed a one-year, $12 million extension with Boston, including a $1 million signing bonus and an option for 2027. The option becomes guaranteed if he pitches 40 innings in 2026 and passes a physical, keeping him under team control for at least one more season.
Among Cuban-born closers, Chapman’s resume stands apart. Raisel Iglesias has been one of the most reliable relievers of the last decade with a 3.05 ERA and 208 saves. Chapman exceeds those totals with 363 saves and 1,323 strikeouts,
His age makes this season even more remarkable. Few pitchers maintain elite velocity and control at 37, let alone post career-best numbers in ERA, WHIP, and strikeout rate. Chapman’s consistency and durability have been central to Boston’s playoff push, as the bullpen has relied on him to finish games—and he has delivered every time.