Yankees activate Aroldis Chapman from IL

The Cuban Missile is finally back. After missing their All-Star closer for the first 21 games of the season, Aroldis Chapman will return tonight against the Red Sox in the series finale at Yankee Stadium.

Chapman tested positive for coronavirus at the beginning of Yankees’ summer camp in July. Since then, he has been working out and preparing for the season on his own.

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I had an excellent week working at home, maintaining my work rhythm. Although I cannot leave the house, I’m trying to stay in shape. God willing, I will be able to come out negative to the next two COVID-19 test and I be able to join my teammates soon. #chapmanswagg

A post shared by Aroldis Chapman 🇨🇺 (@_thecubanmissile54) on Jul 19, 2020 at 4:50pm PDT

To make room for Chapman on the roster, David Hale was DFA’d for what feels like the 500th time.

Prior to tonight’s game, the Yankees made the following roster moves:
• Returned LHP Aroldis Chapman (#54) from rehab and reinstated him from the injured list.
• Designated RHP David Hale for assignment.

— New York Yankees (@Yankees) August 17, 2020

The return of the six-time All-Star provides a huge boost to the back of the Yankee bullpen. Chapman posted a 2.21 ERA and 85 strikeouts in 57 innings pitched last season. More importantly, Zack Britton will now be able to return to a setup role, providing needed depth in the bullpen after the loss of Tommy Kahnle.

Welcome back, Chappy.