Report: Chapman draws interest from Dodgers
The Dodgers, looking to make an upgrade in their bullpen, have reportedly "checked in" on Reds closer Aroldis Chapman, according to CBSSports.com's Jon Heyman.
Heyman reported that the Dodgers have been mostly connected (along with plenty of other teams) to setup man Darren O'Day, but they've "cast a wide net in their search for relief help," and have begun to explore the possibility of a trade to land Chapman.
The 27-year-old has been an All-Star each of the last four seasons, saving 145 games in that span (and 146 total since 2010).
Chapman is third-year arbitration-eligible for this season and will be a free agent in 2017. Heyman lists the Nationals, D-backs, Blue Jays and Astros among the other teams interested in him.
For comparison's sake, the fact that Chapman will be a free agent after this season, as opposed to fellow closer Craig Kimbrel (acquired by the Red Sox from the Padres on Nov. 13), who is under team control for another three seasons, will make Chapman cheaper on the market this winter.
The Cincinnati Enquirer's C. Trent Rosecrans reported last week that Reds president of baseball operations Walt Jocketty "hopes to get something done" in regard to a Chapman trade by the upcoming Winter Meetings in Nashville, Tenn.
The Dodgers recently came to terms with another pair of Cuban players, 19-year-old outfielder Yusniel Diaz and 17-year-old second baseman Omar Esteves. Diaz is ranked No. 3 on MLB.com's Top 30 International Prospects list.
Also this month, the club signed Cuban right-handed pitcher Yadiel Alvarez for $16 million, ranked No. 1 by MLB.com, outfielder Starling Heredia (ranked No. 7) for $2.6 million; infielder Ronny Brito (ranked No. 22) for $2 million; outfielders Christopher Arias for $500,000 and Carlos Rincon for $350,000; and shortstop Oneal Cruz for $950,000.