Red Sox extend closer Aroldis Chapman with 2027 vesting option

The Boston Red Sox finalized an extension with closer Aroldis Chapman on Sunday, keeping the hard‑throwing lefty in Boston for at least the 2026 season and potentially into 2027, the team announced following a 5-2 win at Fenway Park. The deal is reported to pay Chapman roughly $13 million for 2026 and includes a 2027 vesting option that would pay another $13 million if he reaches a specified innings threshold; if the vesting condition is not met the contract carries a small buyout, according to team statements and media reports.

Chapman, 37, signed a one-year, $10.75 million contract with Boston in December and was scheduled to reach free agency after the 2025 season. He has delivered one of the most dominant relief seasons of his 16-year career, compiling an earned-run average around 1.04 and converting the majority of his save chances while striking out better than a batter per inning. Chapman has not allowed a hit since July 23, a span that covers more than 14 appearances and extends to roughly 40-plus consecutive batters faced, according to team and media accounts. The closer extended what team releases described as a club-record hitless streak this week while logging his...