Challenges Faced by Aroldis Chapman: Obstacles and Turning Points

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Aroldis Chapman's life and career.

Aroldis Chapman, nicknamed "the Cuban Missile," is a Cuban-born American professional baseball relief pitcher, currently playing for the Boston Red Sox. Known for his exceptionally high fastball velocity, Chapman has played for multiple MLB teams, including the Cincinnati Reds, New York Yankees, and Chicago Cubs. He is a member of the 300 save club and holds the record for the most strikeouts among left-handed relief pitchers, marking him as a prominent figure in baseball.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

2008: Failed Defection Attempt and Reprieve

After a failed defection attempt in the spring of 2008, Chapman met with Cuban president Raúl Castro and was given a conditional reprieve, suspending him for part of the season but allowing him to return and play in the WBC in 2009.

July 1, 2009: Defection from Cuba

On July 1, 2009, Chapman successfully defected from Cuba while in Rotterdam, Netherlands, during the World Port Tournament.

2009: Defection from Cuba

In 2009, Chapman defected from Cuba.

2010: Postseason Loss

In Game 2 of the 2010 NLDS against the Philadelphia Phillies, Chapman got his first career postseason loss.

May 2012: Lawsuit Filed Against Chapman

In May 2012, Aroldis Chapman was sued for allegedly serving as an informant for Cuban state authorities after a failed defection attempt and helping turn in another man in order to get back on the country's national baseball team.

March 19, 2014: Head Injury

On March 19, 2014, during a spring training game, Chapman was struck in the head by a line drive, resulting in a skull fracture and requiring surgery.

October 30, 2015: Alleged Domestic Violence Incident

On October 30, 2015, Aroldis Chapman was allegedly involved in a domestic violence incident with his girlfriend in Davie, Florida. He was accused of pushing and choking her, and firing eight gunshots. The trade with the Dodgers was put on hold as MLB investigated the incident.

December 7, 2015: News Breaks of Domestic Violence Allegations

On December 7, 2015, news broke regarding Aroldis Chapman's alleged domestic violence incident on October 30, 2015. The trade with the Dodgers was put on hold, and MLB announced its investigation.

May 14, 2017: Chapman Placed on Disabled List

On May 14, 2017, Aroldis Chapman was placed on the 10-day disabled list due to rotator cuff inflammation in his left shoulder.

2019: Chapman's 2019 Season

In 2019, Aroldis Chapman achieved a 3–2 record with 37 saves and a 2.21 ERA. He was also awarded the AL Reliever of the Month Award for both May and August, and the Mariano Rivera American League Reliever of the Year Award at the end of the season. However, he gave up a walk-off home run in Game 6 of the ALCS, eliminating the Yankees from the playoffs.