Aroldis Chapman breaks MLall-time strikeout record among relievers

July 4, 2026 - 07:57

Boston Red Sox closer Aroldis Chapman has officially claimed the top spot on Major League Baseball's all-time strikeout list for relief pitchers. Chapman broke a tie with Hall of Famer Hoyt Wilhelm during a recent appearance, punching out a batter to notch the 1,287th strikeout of his career as a reliever. That moves him past Wilhelm, who had held the record for decades with 1,286 strikeouts out of the bullpen.

Chapman, known for his triple-digit fastball and intimidating presence on the mound, has been a dominant force since his debut in 2010. He spent most of his career with the Cincinnati Reds and later the New York Yankees before joining the Red Sox. The milestone is the latest in a long line of achievements for the 36-year-old left-hander, who also holds the record for the fastest recorded pitch in MLB history at 105.1 miles per hour.

While Chapman's career has not been without controversy, including a suspension under MLB's domestic violence policy, his numbers on the field are undeniable. He has been selected to seven All-Star games and has saved over 300 games. The record he now holds alone is a testament to his longevity and his ability to miss bats, a skill that has made him one of the most feared relievers of his generation.