Aroldis Chapman Saves Game For Red Sox In Surprise Return From Injury
Aroldis Chapman is back for the Boston Red Sox, and not a moment too soon.
After suffering a back spasm during Sunday’s 4-3 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers, Chapman was unavailable for Monday’s series opener against the Minnesota Twins. The Red Sox sorely missed him, turning a 4-3 ninth-inning lead into a 5-4 loss after Jordan Hicks blew his first save of the season following an ill-timed rain delay.
Boston was hoping not to need its All-Star closer during Tuesday’s game, especially after taking a comfortable 8-3 lead into the bottom of the ninth. Jorge Alcala was unable to get the final three outs, however, allowing a two-run homer to the red-hot Brooks Lee.
With two outs and a runner on first, Alex Cora summoned Chapman to record the last out. He needed just three pitches to shut the door, whiffing pinch-hitter Mickey Gasper on a nasty 101-mph sinker to end the game and secure an 8-5 bounce-back victory for the Red Sox.
While he only faced one batter, it was an encouraging return for Chapman nevertheless. The eight-time All-Star didn’t show any lingering effects from his back ailment, throwing three straight strikes (all on different pitch types) with his trademark velocity.
The save was Chapman’s 19th in 21 opportunities this season, lowering his ERA to 1.29. The 37-year-old flamethrower now has 62 strikeouts and a 0.81 WHIP in 42 innings this year.
Boston will go for the series win in Wednesday afternoon’s rubber match at Target Field. Brayan Bello (6-5, 3.32 ERA) will be on the mound for the Red Sox seeking his first win since the All-Star Break. With an off day on Thursday, Cora would ideally like to get Chapman some extra rest before this weekend’s series against the AL West-leading Houston Astros at Fenway Park.