The MLB offseason has already been eventful, with several star players switching teams. The biggest splash so far has been Juan Soto’s record-breaking 15-year, $765 million deal with the New York Mets. Meanwhile, following their 2024 World Series victory, the Los Angeles Dodgers were named the early favorites for the 2025 title, according to FOX Sports: MLB. They were followed by the New York Yankees, Atlanta Braves, Philadelphia Phillies, and Baltimore Orioles in the top five.
However, the Phillies just took a significant hit to their bullpen. According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, 2023 All-Star reliever Carlos Estévez has signed a deal with the Kansas City Royals, leaving Philadelphia without one of its key late-inning arms.
Estévez, who was acquired from the Los Angeles Angels at the 2024 trade deadline, was a crucial part of the Phillies’ relief corps down the stretch. In 20 regular-season appearances, he posted an impressive 2.57 ERA while converting six saves. His departure not only weakens Philadelphia’s bullpen but also means the team ultimately lost assets in the trade without any long-term return.
As the Phillies look to remain a serious championship contender, they may need to explore other bullpen options in free agency or the trade market to fill the void left by Estévez.
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