Would rather retire than pitch for the Yankees: "Cuban Missile" Chapman demands an apology from the Yankees' general manager first

With the MLB trade deadline drawing near, Aroldis Chapman, the closer for the Boston Red Sox, is attracting interest from several clubs. But when questioned about going back to the New York Yankees, his old team, Chapman stated a clear requirement: he wants Yankees GM Brian Cashman to apologize.

Chapman recently told ESPN that if the possibility of returning to the Yankees ever arises, he believes someone within the Yankees organization owes him an apology.

Furthermore, Chapman had already stated on the "Swing Completo" podcast last October that he would "rather retire on the spot than pitch for the Yankees again," which sparked considerable discussion at the time. When pressed further about whether he meant Cashman, Chapman answered directly: "Yes."

The 38-year-old Chapman has been outstanding for the Red Sox this season, posting a 0.46 ERA and 13 saves so far, making him the team's most reliable closer and a highly attractive reliever on the trade market.

Chapman's conflict with the Yankees dates back to the end of the 2022 season. At that time, he was struggling with a 4.46 ERA and lost his closer role due to a leg infection from a tattoo. He was then left off the ALDS playoff roster after missing a workout. Although Chapman claimed he had permission to go to Miami, Cashman publicly accused him of insubordination. Now, when discussing a potential return to the Yankees, Chapman stated: "What happened happened. If I really go back, I believe someone in that organization should apologize first." He later confirmed in the interview that the person is Cashman.

Chapman has allowed only one run over 19.2 innings this season, striking out 26 batters and converting all 13 save opportunities. In 87 appearances with the Red Sox, he has a 1.00 ERA, 45 saves, and 111 strikeouts in 81 innings.

"Every day you see people in the media talking and commenting about it on social media," Chapman said of the trade deadline rumors. "At the end of the day, I can't control it. I just focus on being able to play, even though I haven't played much lately. I try to stay focused and do my job when it's my turn."

The 38-year-old Chapman has 380 career saves, eight All-Star selections, and two championship rings. He is currently under a one-year, $13.3 million contract that includes a player option for 2027 worth $13 million if he reaches 40 innings pitched in 2026 and passes a postseason physical.

"I'm under a contract now, and I have no control over it," Chapman said. "I don't have any clauses or anything like that with any team. But going to New York would first have to be something I discuss with the manager. Sit down and talk, and see what happens."

Although after leaving the Yankees, Chapman has played for the Royals, Rangers, Pirates, and Red Sox, winning another championship with the Rangers in 2023, it's clear he still hasn't fully let go of the past incident.

Chapman said he wouldn't refuse to go back to the Yankees. He emphasized that what happened is in the past, but if he truly gets another chance to wear the pinstripes, he hopes to see the organization show sincerity first.