Red Sox secure ninth inning with Chapman's four-strikeout performance, maintaining his hitless run.
Aroldis Chapman Extends Hitless Streak to 17 Games for Boston Red Sox
Aroldis Chapman, the American League Reliever of the Month for August, has continued his impressive form for the Boston Red Sox. On Tuesday, Chapman recorded a hitless streak of 17 games, spanning 14.2 innings, in a 7-4 win against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
The game started with Chapman striking out Blaze Alexander on the first pitch. He then fanned Ildemaro Vargas on six pitches but allowed a wild pitch that got by catcher Carlos Narvaez. However, Chapman recovered to strike out Tyler Locklear on an 86 mph slider and Jordan Lawler swinging at a filthy 97 mph sinker, logging his 29th save of the season.
Chapman's hitless streak is the longest since 1901, besides the 20 appearances by Randy Choate and 18 appearances by Tim Byrdak. The runner last scored against Chapman on July 23. Moreover, Chapman has not allowed a run in over six weeks.
The Red Sox secured Chapman's services for an extended period, as they signed him to a one-year contract extension with an option for the 2027 season on Aug. 31. Chapman's impressive performance this season has seen him record 81 strikeouts in his 55 innings, with only 14 walks on the year.
Chapman's four-strikeout inning against the Diamondbacks made him the second pitcher to log such an inning this season, joining Steven Matz. The Red Sox will be hoping that Chapman can continue his impressive form as they push for a playoff spot in the coming weeks.
