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Yankees' Chapman open to new role upon return from injury

Duane Burleson / Getty Images Sport / Getty

With Clay Holmes excelling as the New York Yankees' closer, Aroldis Chapman appears open to pitching in a new role upon his return from injury.

"I’m past that point in my career in which I would fight for a role, for the closer role," Chapman told the New York Post's Dan Martin through an interpreter Tuesday.

Holmes has been a revelation for the Yankees. The 29-year-old has racked up 11 saves while posting a sparkling 0.55 ERA in 31 appearances so far this season.

The 34-year-old Chapman, who's been out with an Achilles issue since May 24, believes Holmes deserves to continue closing games.

"When I got to the major leagues, they gave me the opportunity to close and I took advantage of the opportunity. Pretty much the same thing is happening to (Holmes)," Chapman said. "If he has that role, it is because he is doing well."

Meanwhile, Chapman is solely focused on his recovery.

"I am here, trying to recover, come back, be well, healthy, and help the team in any way, in any role," Chapman said.

The seven-time All-Star struggled to start the campaign. Chapman owns a career-high 3.86 ERA with nine saves and 15 strikeouts across 14 innings this season.

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