Red Sox Bullpen Struggles Despite Chapman’s Stellar Start

BOSTON, Mass. — The Boston Red Sox bullpen has faced challenges at the start of the 2025 Major League Baseball season, recording a 4.46 ERA. Despite this, there are bright spots, especially with closer Aroldis Chapman. The seven-time All-Star has made a significant impact in 10 games, boasting a 1.08 ERA and a 13-to-4 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 8 1/3 innings pitched.

Chapman has also secured four saves so far this season, solidifying his role as a reliable option at the end of games. However, some analysts are questioning the Red Sox’s closer situation, even with Chapman excelling. Complementing Chapman are strong backup options like Justin Slaten and Liam Hendriks.

In an interesting twist, ESPN’s David Schoenfield mentioned potential trade candidates for teams, listing Los Angeles Angels’ Kenley Jansen as a possible fit for Boston. Jansen, now 37, has transitioned from his prime years with the Dodgers but remains an option for teams looking for late-inning reliability. Schoenfield noted that both Jansen and fellow Angel Tyler Anderson could be logical trade candidates, especially if the Angels experience another losing season.

While Jansen, who previously played for the Red Sox, may not return to Boston, speculation continues about other teams’ closer situations, including the Cubs and the Rangers.

In other Red Sox news, Roman Anthony, regarded as a top outfield prospect, is drawing considerable attention. The 20-year-old is performing well in the minors, with a slash line of .286/.419/.543, including four home runs and 12 RBIs in 19 games. There have been rumors about moving him to first base, but Triple-A Worcester manager Chad Tracy dismissed these speculations, reiterating that Anthony will remain in the outfield.

Tracy stated, ‘We are not putting Roman at first base,’ quashing the growing rumors. Anthony’s rise is expected to land him a place in the major league lineup this season, sticking to his natural position.