Aroldis Chapman dominated 2025 with a career-best 1.17 ERA and American League Reliever of the Year honors, but will the Boston Red Sox closer still hold that role by season's end in 2026? Host Gabby (Hurlbut) Maljanian ranks every Red Sox reliever by reliability and makes a compelling case for why Chapman's age-related decline is inevitable.

The breakdown covers Garrett Whitlock's emergence as the closer-in-waiting, Brennan Bernardino's overuse concerns, and Steven Matz's impact after his trade deadline acquisition. Key discussions include Richard Fitts unlocking something special as a reliever versus starter, Jordan Hicks ranking dead last despite being a centerpiece of the Rafael Devers trade, and why the bullpen's sixth and seventh innings remain the biggest question mark heading into 2026.

Discover which Red Sox relievers are primed for breakout seasons and which arms Craig Breslow needs to target in free agency to maintain the American League's top bullpen ERA.

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime
Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)