Aroldis Chapman Update Time
By: mbohn
It looks like
dude
is headed to the Minors to start the year. This is because of his
recent back spasms, and not because he did not earn the fifth starters
job. That job will still go to an unproven rookie, and if either Travis
Wood or Mike Leake (whichever rookie gets the nod) falters look for
Chapman to show up ASAP. Had he not had the back spasms and missed some
work, he would have made the team out of camp as far as I can tell.
This does not change my outlook on Chapman. Nab him if you can, because
he will have value this season. How much remains to be seen, but I
expect him to be in the triple digits in Ks, have an ERA under 4, and
notch over 8 wins. Optimistic? Yes. Keep in mind that dude is coming
from the Cuban league, though, and has faced good hitters all of his
career. The adjustment to MLB should not be too severe, and Chapman is
primed for success off the bat. Do not be afraid to draft him because
of this Minor setback (see what I did there?).