Yankees manager Joe Girardi removed whatever bit of mystery might have looming over his bullpen's back end when he named the newly acquired Aroldis Chapman closer on the YES Network Monday night.

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It was the right move. Here's why:

1.) It was a foregone conclusion: When asked whether Chapman would take over Andrew Miller's spot as the Yankees' closer almost immediately after the Yankees got Chapman from the Reds for a package of middling prospects, general manager Brian Cashman all but signaled Miller would get pushed out of the role. According to Cashman, Miller told him he would be willing to pitch anywhere in the bullpen, and then in a subsequent interview with NJ Advance Media, Miller said it himself. If the plan was for Miller -- who completely deserved to keep his job -- to actually keep it, the Yankees would have confirmed that.

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2.) No false competition: Last year, the Yankees went into spring training with a legitimate closer's competition between Dellin Betances and Miller, two guys who'd close just about anywhere else. Miller won because Betances' control problems lasted into the first week of April. This time around, though, it would be tough to believe in any real competition for the job, considering Chapman's a four-time All-Star and the game's hardest thrower, and Miller's stated flexibility.

3.) Chapman's possible suspension: Reports have made it seem more and more likely Chapman will serve some sort of suspension for his alleged domestic abuse. It's likely Miller will take over in his absence. But it helps to have Chapman named the closer for when he returns. That way, even if Miller is dominating, it won't be a surprise when Chapman usurps him.

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4.) Defined roles: Girardi's a big proponent of defined bullpen roles. He likes having a traditional closer, set-up guy, seventh-inning guy, and so on. He believes it's the best way to help relievers prepare on any given night. By naming Chapman the closer now, Chapman can transition a bit more easily into the Bronx than he might have if he felt like he was pitching for his job.

Brendan Kuty may be reached at bkuty@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @BrendanKutyNJ. Find NJ.com Yankees on Facebook.