Los Angeles Times

Yankees acquire All-Star Chapman

- Wire reports

The New York Yankees bolstered an already dominant bullpen Monday, acquiring hard-throwing All-Star closer Aroldis Chapman from the Cincinnati Reds for four minor leaguers.

Chapman became available after the Reds’ deal with the Dodgers fell through during baseball’s winter meetings three weeks ago when it was learned Florida police investigat­ed an accusation of domestic violence involving the Cuban left-hander.

Major League Baseball is investigat­ing and Chapman could face suspension under the league’s new domestic violence policy.

“We felt this was an opportunit­y to add a big arm to our bullpen, even though there are some things that are unresolved,” Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman said. “And we will respect that process as it plays out.”

New York was able to protect its top minor leaguers in the deal, sending right-handers Caleb Cotham and Rookie Davis and infielders Eric Jagielo and Tony Renda to Cincinnati. Jagielo was New York’s No. 1 pick in 2013 (26th overall).

Chapman gives the Yankees the top three relievers by strikeouts and strikeouts per nine innings in the majors. Andrew Miller had 36 saves in his first year with New York and Dellin Betances made his second straight All-Star team as the setup man.

A 27-year-old left-hander, Chapman is eligible for free agency after next year’s World Series. But that could be pushed back until after the 2017 season if he is suspended by MLB without pay for more than 45 days.

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