Aroldis Chapman - starter or closer?

[Jags Fan Dan]

Just my opinion, but I hope the Reds let Chapman remain the closer. I just have a feeling things could go sideways pretty quickly if they make him a starter. I don't think his arm can take it. He had to take time off last year due to arm fatigue and that was as a closer. I know starters get 4 days of rest between starts, but don't starters generally move to the bull pen later in their career when their arms begin to tire (ala John Smoltz)?

Anybody agree? Disagree? I just want to go on record as saying there is no way I can see him having the kind of success as a starter as he did last year as a closer. If it ain't broke, don't fix it!!!

[sox83cubs84]

I tend to agree with you...he is an excellent closer. If it ain't broke, don't fix
it.

Dave Miedema

[onlyalbert]

Closer......or an injury!

[rogergoochman]

Closer. He wont be the same pitcher. Most lose velocity going to the rotation, so they can go more innings.

[anthony3133]

Closer. Starter=Tommy John Surgery

[geoff]

Keep him as a closer.I could also see Tommy John in his future if switched to starter.Just look at what happened to Feliz of the Rangers when he got switched from closer to starter.

[gameused]

Closer....A guy that throws that hard you have to limit his pitches/innings as it will certainly lead to injuries down the road.

Thought I would share a rookie Chapman photo matched Nike glove I have in my collection. Go Reds in 2013!!

Thanks,
Bobby
hawaii_five0@yahoo.com

[Jags Fan Dan]

I see they are keeping him in the bullpen. Good call!