Carlos Estévez has been effective as the closer for the Kansas City Royals so far this season. The proven veteran has been one of the better shut-down arms in MLB. He is also a big reason why this team has stayed competitive in the AL Central.
Surprise Signing
The team’s primary closer last year was James McArthur, who finished with 18 saves in 2024. Following the end of the season, he underwent surgery to repair a fracture in his right elbow. He is expected to miss most, if not all, of the 2025 season. The organization knew they would need a closer to stay competitive and make another playoff run. That is why they went out and signed Estévez. Although Estévez was not considered a top-tier free agent, the team knew he could fill a need.
Carlos Estévez officially joins the Royals! pic.twitter.com/DYYhYzQplx
— Joel Penfield (@jtpenfield) February 1, 2025
Uplifting Statistics
As of Monday, Estévez has 14 saves with 21 strikeouts and a 1.96 ERA. His 97 mph fastball, changeup, and slider have confused hitters so far. His ground ball rate has increased, and his dominating confidence on the mound has proven to be an asset. Although he has had two blown saves, he has not had any since April 22. His continued high strikeout rate and low walk efficiency have gained the trust of his teammates and manager Matt Quatraro.
New Conditioning
Estévez has been effective for this Royals roster. After experiencing lower back issues in Spring Training, he worked with strength coach Ryan Stoneberg. Stoneberg adjusted Estévez’s form and gave him some back exercises. That conditioning has helped him maintain his effectiveness and velocity through the first 50 games.
Persistence and Resilience
Estévez has indeed solidified Kansas City’s bullpen as a reliable closer. His persistence and resilience have contributed to the team’s success. It’s no secret that he’s not the typical dominant closer who blows hitters away. However, he knows what pitch to throw in pressure situations and is reliable against both right- and left-handed batters.
Positive Influence
Estévez has been a positive and supportive teammate. Both teams he was with last season, the Los Angeles Angels and the Philadelphia Phillies, considered him a great addition. At age 32 and a veteran of nine seasons, he demonstrates to the younger pitchers his strong work ethic and the achievements it brings. He is passionate and even animated about contributing to the team’s success.
When the Angels gathered in the clubhouse to wish luck to All-Stars Shohei Ohtani and Mike Trout, they also informed Carlos Estévez he’d be going to Seattle.
One problem: he already had a flight booked to go home for the break. pic.twitter.com/u28RZR40ns
— Patrick Lyons (@PatrickDLyons) July 10, 2023
Outlook for the Season
The Royals’ goal is to return to the playoffs. They want to advance to the ALCS and reach the World Series. Their strengths include a top-heavy offense led by Bobby Witt Jr. and a solid starting rotation. With Estévez as a stop-gap closer, he will be called upon to end the game and secure the save. His 86 career saves, proven reliability, and recent performances suggest he can be monumental in that role. That should keep this team in a playoff race for the season.
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