Thu Mar 27 22:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Red Sox Announce Chapman as Closer, Finalize Roster Decisions Ahead of Opening Day
**MONTERREY, Mexico** – Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora announced Aroldis Chapman as the team’s closer following the conclusion of their spring training exhibition games in Monterrey, Mexico. While Chapman will primarily pitch the ninth inning, Cora indicated flexibility in his usage, potentially deploying him earlier in high-leverage situations, such as the eighth inning if Corey Seager is due up. Liam Hendriks will serve as a key backup closer.
The Red Sox also confirmed their bullpen will include Justin Slaten, Garrett Whitlock, and Justin Wilson. Two additional relievers, Zack Kelly and Greg Weissert, made the team, leaving one final bullpen spot to be decided between Cooper Criswell and Brennan Bernardino. There remains a possibility of adding an external player before the Opening Day roster deadline on Thursday at noon ET.
On the position player side, outfielder Wilyer Abreu will be on the Opening Day roster despite missing part of spring training due to illness. He and several other players, including Rafael Devers, Trevor Story, Romy Gonzalez, and Ceddanne Rafaela, remained in Fort Myers to continue their preparations. Gonzalez, who suffered a minor oblique injury, is expected to be ready for Thursday’s game.
Left-hander Sean Newcomb is likely to be the team’s fifth starter, according to Cora. First baseman Triston Casas escaped a scare after taking a bad hop to the hand, with X-rays revealing no structural damage; he’s expected to be ready for Opening Day.
Cora expressed his satisfaction with the significant improvement in the team’s infield defense, highlighting the contributions of Trevor Story’s return and the addition of Alex Bregman. He praised the defensive improvements across the infield, including Triston Casas at first base. The Red Sox will open their regular season on Thursday in Texas.
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