Red Sox reliever sets career record for strikeouts by a relief pitcher

Aroldis Chapman recorded his 1,364th career strikeout as a relief pitcher, breaking a mark that had stood since 1987. The total was reached in less than 850 innings. The previous record holder reached the total after 1,872⅓ innings pitched across a 21-year career that began at age 29. Chapman, in his 17th season, has maintained a fastball averaging 97.3 mph this year.

Career context and statistical ranking The article compared Chapman with the 12 relievers holding the highest career save totals. Ten statistical categories were used, including saves, innings pitched, WAR, strikeouts per nine innings, ERA+, save percentage, win probability added, OPS allowed, win-loss percentage and postseason WPA.

Dennis Eckersley ranked first in the composite scoring with 96 points. John Franco placed second with 89 points, followed by Lee Smith with 82 points. Chapman has recorded saves and maintained a role in the Boston Red Sox bullpen over the past two seasons.