Another name can be added to the list of players who would rule out ever playing for the New York Yankees (again).
In 2023, before signing his 14-year, $500 million deal with the Toronto Blue Jays, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. said he wouldn’t be caught “dead” signing with the Yankees.
Now, former Yankees closer Aroldis Chapman is expressing a similar sentiment.
On an appearance on the “Swing Completo,” (Complete Swing) podcast, Chapman vowed never to wear the Yankee pinstripes again.
“No way. Not even dead,” Chapman said in a clip shared through Instagram. “If I were told that I was being traded to New York, I’d pack my things and go home. I’ll retire right on the spot if that happens. I’m not crazy. Never again.
“I dealt with a lot of disrespect there. I put up with a lot of things. I knew that they just wanted to find a way to get rid of me, but they didn’t know how. And I just dealt with it quietly, kept playing, and doing what I always do.
“I got along well with all the players, never had a problem with anybody, even the manager. We’re friends and we talk and everything. The bosses are the ones who make those decisions.”
After bolting on the Yankees ahead of the 2022 postseason, when it was uncertain he’d make the playoff roster, Chapman revived his career with the Kansas City Royals in 2023. After proving effective, the Rangers, in need of bullpen help, grabbed him at the trade deadline — and later helped him earn his second World Series ring.
Since then, he played one season with the Pittsburgh Pirates and another revitalized season with the Red Sox in 2025.
In 67 appearances with the Yankees’ division rival, Chapman posted a career-best 1.17 ERA while striking out 85 batters over 61 1/3 innings.
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