The Pirates faced setbacks in early July, losing crucial series against NL Wild Card contenders like the St. Louis Cardinals and the New York Mets at home. Their pitching rotation has been hampered by injuries, and their offense has been inconsistent. With the trade deadline looming, the Pirates may need to make moves, starting with potentially trading Aroldis Chapman.
Chapman’s recent performance against the Mets highlighted his turbulent season. Initially brought in to bolster what was expected to be a top-tier bullpen in 2024, injuries to key players like David Bednar have forced the Pirates to rely heavily on bullpen depth. Unfortunately, the results have been disappointing, with Pittsburgh’s bullpen posting one of the worst ERAs in MLB and the NL’s highest walk rate. Chapman, a significant part of this bullpen struggle, has seen his once-dominant fastball lose effectiveness, leading to issues with control and a high walk rate of 20.7%, the worst among pitchers facing over 150 batters this season.
Despite these challenges, Chapman’s high strikeout rate remains a valuable asset that could attract interest on the trade market if the Pirates opt to sell. Reflecting on his impactful role in the 2023 postseason with the Rangers after being traded by the Royals, Chapman’s past success could intrigue teams seeking bullpen reinforcement. However, the Pirates should not expect to command the same return as last season’s trade involving Chapman.
Potential suitors like the Royals, currently in contention for the AL Wild Card, could consider reuniting with Chapman to bolster their bullpen’s power, although negotiations may hinge on Pittsburgh’s desire for outfield depth in return. Alternatively, the Dodgers, perennial contenders, are also likely searching for bullpen support, making a trade involving prospects like Kendall George a possibility for the Pirates.
If the Pirates can capitalize on Chapman’s trade value to address their current bullpen challenges and fortify their future prospects, it would align with their strategic goals amidst a challenging season. As Pittsburgh navigates this critical juncture, opportunities to develop young pitchers in Chapman’s absence could pave the way for long-term success.