Aroldis Chapman made an unexpected return to the Boston Red Sox bullpen on Tuesday, delivering a crucial save just days after a back spasm sidelined him. His timely appearance helped the Red Sox secure an 8-5 win over the Minnesota Twins, reinforcing the importance of the All-Star closer to the team’s success this season.

Loss Without Chapman Highlights His Value to the Team

Chapman missed Monday’s series opener against Minnesota following the injury he suffered during Sunday’s 4-3 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers. Boston’s bullpen struggled in his absence, with Jordan Hicks giving up a lead in the ninth inning to result in a 5-4 defeat after a rain delay. The loss underscored how much the Red Sox rely on Chapman’s stability in late-game situations.

Chapman Secures Win with Quick Ninth-Inning Appearance

On Tuesday, Boston held a comfortable 8-3 lead going into the ninth inning but faced challenges as reliever Jorge Alcala allowed a two-run homer to Brooks Lee. With two outs and a runner on first base, Red Sox manager Alex Cora turned to Chapman to end the game. Chapman needed only three pitches, striking out pinch-hitter Mickey Gasper with a 101-mph sinker to close out the victory confidently.

Chapman Shows No Signs of Injury, Maintains Dominant Form

Though Chapman faced only one batter, his performance indicated a full recovery from his back spasm. The eight-time All-Star threw three consecutive strikes on different pitch types, demonstrating his trademark high velocity. This save marked his 19th in 21 opportunities this season, improving his ERA to 1.29. At 37 years old, Chapman has recorded 62 strikeouts and maintains a 0.81 WHIP in 42 innings pitched this year.

Looking Ahead: Rest and Preparation for Upcoming Series

Boston aims to capture the series win with Wednesday’s game at Target Field, where Brayan Bello (6-5, 3.32 ERA) will pitch in pursuit of his first win since the All-Star Break. Following an off day Thursday, manager Alex Cora hopes to use the break to provide extra rest for Chapman before the Red Sox host the AL West-leading Houston Astros at Fenway Park this weekend. Maintaining Chapman’s health will be key as Boston seeks to stay competitive in a tight playoff race.

“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.” —Alex Cora, Red Sox Manager
“The save was Chapman’s 19th in 21 opportunities this season, lowering his ERA to 1.29.” —Team Official