Report: Red Sox and Aroldis Chapman Agree to One-Year Contract Extension

The Boston Red Sox made a surprise signing Saturday night, as the club and star closer Aroldis Chapman agreed on a one-year extension for the 2026 season, along with an option for the 2027 season.

The deal, first reported by Francys Romero, will be worth $13.3 million in 2026, while the option for 2027 is a vesting option based on innings. Should the vesting option not trigger, it will instead become a mutual option. Overall, Chapman could earn $26 million over the next two seasons should the option be picked up.

Saying Chapman has been dominant this season would be an understatement, as the left-handed pitcher has appeared in 57 games this season going 4-2 with 26 saves and a 1.04 ERA across 52 innings. In that span, he has struck out 74 batters while allowing just 14 walks. After entering spring training as part of the competition for the closer role, Chapman made it his own and has solidified the ninth inning for the Red Sox.

By locking up Chapman, the Red Sox have made sure the back end of their bullpen is all set for the 2026 season, as relievers Garrett Whitlock and Justin Slaten will also be under contract.

Chapman, who will be 38 years old next season, made his eighth All-Star team this year and his first since 2021. For his career, he has appeared in 853 games across 16 seasons. In that span, he’s gone 59-47 with 361 saves and a 2.53 ERA in 812 innings.