Yankees name Aroldis Chapman closer over Andrew Miller

Newly acquired reliever Aroldis Chapman will be the Yankees’ closer heading into spring training, supplanting Andrew Miller, manager Joe Girardi said Monday in an interview on the team’s cable network.

Newly acquired reliever Aroldis Chapman will be the Yankees’ closer heading into spring training, supplanting Andrew Miller, manager Joe Girardi said Monday in an interview on the team’s cable network.

Miller will transition to a setup role and Dellin Betances will be the seventh inning man.

Chapman’s availability for Opening Day remains in question, though, as MLB is still investigating a domestic violence complaint that could result in a suspension. Under the league’s new domestic violence policy, commissioner Rob Manfred has the power to levy any discipline he sees fit.

Chapman was acquired late last month from the Reds for four minor leaguers. Earlier trade discussions with the Dodgers broke down after the domestic violence allegations surfaced.

• JAFFE: Yanks get Chapman, but questions remain about closer’s future​

Aroldis Chapman will be the Yankees closer heading into spring training, says Joe Girardi.https://t.co/mqBrE7bmJU

— YES Network (@YESNetwork) January 12, 2016

Chapman, Miller and Betances were the top three relief pitchers in strikeouts last season. 

Girardi also said that 40-year-old Alex Rodriguez, who played six games in the field last season, will only be a designated hitter in 2016.

- Dan Gartland