Could Aroldis Chapman be the Tigers’ smartest bullpen move at the deadline? originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

The Tigers have earned the right to dream big. They’ve spent most of the summer at the top of the AL, with a lineup that scores runs, a rotation led by a Cy Young winner, and a bullpen that’s been better than expected. But if they’re going to win in October, there’s one piece they still might need: a dominant, swing-and-miss arm at the back end.

Former GM Jim Bowden sees it the same way. In his latest column for The Athletic, Bowden listed Aroldis Chapman and David Bednar as the two most realistic bullpen targets for Detroit—and Chapman might be the cleaner fit.

The 36-year-old lefty is having one of his best seasons in years. He’s posted a 1.65 ERA, a WHIP under 1.00, and he’s racked up 15 saves for the Red Sox while still throwing 100 with ease. His strikeout rate is elite, his walks are down, and the fastball-slider combo still plays—especially when the lights are brightest.

And this wouldn’t be a reach. The Tigers have been connected to Chapman before. They know he comes with postseason experience and a resume that includes over 300 career saves. He’s pitched in a World Series. He’s closed big games in October. He knows what those innings feel like.

The question is whether Boston is willing to move him. The Red Sox haven’t fully committed to selling, but if they fade a little deeper in the standings, Chapman becomes one of the most valuable rental arms on the market.

Detroit doesn’t need to overhaul its bullpen—but it does need someone who can get big outs against elite hitters when the season’s on the line. Chapman gives them that. He wouldn’t just help. He could finish games the Tigers haven’t been able to close in years.

If this is the year, this might be the move.

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 12, 2025, where it first appeared.