In 13 games this season against expected NL contenders STL, WASH and ATL, Chapman has 2 appearances, 2 innings of work.
I know people went back and forth on the whole starter/closer debate, and it's not my intent to get that all worked up again, but it's frustrating to see a $30M arm sit down in the bullpen for an entire series while the offense is woefully inconsistent.
We all love to see Chapman come in and blow people away, but the guy has 15 IP all season. We're 35 games in, and one of our most talented players is rarely on the field.
If the Reds see Chapman as simply a closer, would it not make more sense to make him the crown jewel of a deal that could bring them some much-needed offensive help? Can a small market club afford to have someone like him sitting around instead of playing?
If I'm nuts here, convince me why.