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Reds GM: Kimbrel trade won't affect Chapman market

Scott Rovak / USA TODAY Sports

Cincinnati Reds general manager Dick Williams doesn't seem too concerned that the list of potential trade destinations for closer Aroldis Chapman shrunk Friday when the Boston Red Sox landed four-time All-Star Craig Kimbrel from San Diego.

"Kimbrel was a bit of a different animal than Chapman, in terms of club control," Williams told MLB.com's Mark Sheldon on Saturday. "We didn't feel like we missed out on a deal with them. There will be other teams that are interested in Chapman."

Chapman, a free agent next offseason, is expected to be moved shortly with the Reds unlikely to compete in 2016 following a 64-98 finish this summer. Walt Jocketty, who was recently named president of baseball operations, recently admitted the upcoming season will be a "transition year," while team owner Bob Castellini said he's "on board" for an aggressive roster overhaul.

Chapman, then, remains one of the club's top trade assets, along with right fielder Jay Bruce. An All-Star in each of the last four seasons, Chapman owns a 1.90 ERA with a 0.96 WHIP since taking over as Cincinnati's closer in 2012, notching 145 saves while leading all relievers with a 45 percent strikeout rate over that span.

"I don't control who is out there or who will be interested. We feel that there are other offers," added Williams. "We feel that he's the best closer out there, so (we) hope good stuff can happen."

Projected to earn $12.9 million in 2016, his final year of arbitration eligibility, Chapman authored a 1.63 ERA with a 1.15 WHIP over 65 appearances this season, notching 116 strikeouts in 66 1/3 innings, while limiting opponents to a .181 average.

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