Aroldis Chapman trade buzz could spark Reds reunion that might save Nick Krall's job

At this point, it seems as though Nick Krall and the Cincinnati Reds have explored every internal option to improve the bullpen without much success. Cincinnati needs to make a big move to stabilize the relief corps and to prove to fans that a repeat trip to the postseason is possible. There’s one familiar face available on the trade market that fits the bill.

According to USA Today columnist Bob Nightengale, the Boston Red Sox are poised to entertain offers on flamethrower Aroldis Chapman. The seemingly ageless closer had a resurgent season with Boston last year and has been even better in 2026. In 20 appearances this season, Chapman has allowed just one run.

Chapman's success, though, can be a double-edged sword in a trade; he is absolutely the gamechanger that the Reds need, but the price tag to acquire his services will be steep -- something Cincinnati's front office oftentimes shies away from.

Reds reunion with Aroldis Chapman is exactly what Reds need, but won’t come easy

The first barrier here is timing. Trade season is still six weeks or so away. Standing at nine games under .500 as of June 8, the Red Sox would seemingly be in panic mode, but the shabby plan in the American League still has Boston four games out of a Wild Card spot.

The Red Sox's front office could reasonably hold out some hope before starting a fire sale. By the same token, the Reds, in an incredibly competitive division and league, could fall off and out of the “buyer” category at the deadline.

Furthermore, Chapman will likely be the top reliever on the market. He has a vesting option that will guarantee him $13 million if he hits 40 innings, and if he falls short, he will have a mutual option for 2027.

Even considering him as a rental, Chapman will command a high asking price. Last season, the New York Mets relinquished two prospects in MLB Pipeline’s top-15, plus a third High-A pitcher to secure a few months of Ryan Helsley’s services.

Krall will have to decide between going all-in with a top reliever and playing the long game by holding on to prospects. Either way, he will face both criticism and praise.

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