"Chapman has converted 35 of 37 save opportunities, registering a 1.22 ERA in that span. However, at 38 years old, his fastball velocity has decreased significantly."
"The pitch last week was so much slower than his average fastball that it might have even functioned as a changeup, inducing a game-ending double play."
"Dating back to 2024, we saw a jump of about two miles per hour with his fastball when he gets to two strikes, indicating a strategic adjustment."
Aroldis Chapman has successfully converted 35 of 37 save opportunities with a 1.22 ERA during his time with the Red Sox. At 38 years old, his fastball velocity has decreased, exemplified by a recent pitch at 90.8 mph, the slowest of his career. Despite his impressive track record, concerns about his decline are growing. Chapman adjusts his pitching effort based on game situations, showing a notable increase in fastball speed when facing two-strike counts, indicating a strategic approach to conserve energy and maintain effectiveness.
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