Yankees GM hopes Chapman can be durable 'freak of nature'
Brian Cashman has high hopes for Aroldis Chapman's second stint with the New York Yankees.
The general manager was a guest Thursday on MLB Network's "High Heat" where he revealed the fireballer's longevity is a strength the Yankees fully intend to make use of, if possible.
"We certainly hope that Chapman … can be a freak of nature in terms of his durability as we move forward," Cashman said.
A more durable Chapman may also allow the Bronx Bombers to experiment slightly with his traditional closer role, though it may not be the southpaw's preferred usage. Chicago Cubs skipper Joe Maddon managed Chapman in a more liberal role during the team's 2016 postseason run, though the left-hander didn't agree with the different utilization in the playoffs.
Related: Maddon defends use of Chapman during WS: 'There is no Game 8'
Along with his 100-mph fastballs, Chapman's relatively injury-free career has allowed him to be a consistent threat out of the bullpen. His last serious injury came in March 2014 as a member of the Cincinnati Reds when a line drive struck him in the head, forcing him to undergo surgery and miss 34 games.