The Kansas City Royals have made their first significant free-agent acquisition of the offseason, strengthening their bullpen with the signing of right-handed closer Carlos Estevez. According to reports, Estevez has agreed to a two-year contract with a club option.
This move marks another change to the Royals’ bullpen, which has undergone several adjustments since the trade deadline last year. Joining Lucas Erceg and Hunter Harvey, Estevez brings the experience of an All-Star closer to the mix.
While many expected Erceg to retain the closer role after his strong finish to the 2024 season, Estevez’s signing likely means he will take over the position. Estevez is coming off one of his best seasons, having previously played six years with the Rockies before signing a two-year, $13.5 million contract with the Angels ahead of the 2023 season. He was traded to the Phillies at the 2024 trade deadline. Between the Angels and Phillies, Estevez pitched 117 1/3 innings with a 3.22 ERA, a 26% strikeout rate, and 8.7% walk rate, accumulating 57 saves. His 2.45 ERA in 2024 was a career-best.
Despite his strong performance, Estevez’s postseason experience with the Phillies ended on a sour note when he allowed a grand slam to Francisco Lindor in Game 4 of the NLDS, costing the Phillies the game. This performance led to the team replacing him with Jordan Romano in free agency.
Nevertheless, Estevez remains one of the top relief pitchers available, with no major injuries since 2022 and no significant issues with his elbow or shoulder in recent years. He is in peak form and should be a valuable addition to the Royals as they look to make strides in 2025.
