The Atlanta Braves are looking to bolster their bullpen. According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, one name that caught their eye was right-handed reliever Carlos Estévez.
Estévez, 32, is coming off a career-best season split between the Los Angeles Angels and Philadelphia Phillies. Over 54 appearances, he recorded an impressive 2.45 ERA, a sparkling 0.90 WHIP, and 50 strikeouts across 55 innings.
Unsurprisingly, his standout performance has put him on multiple teams’ radars, including a possible reunion with the Angels.
Why Carlos Estévez Fits the Braves’ Bullpen Needs
Adding Estévez could be a smart move for the Braves, especially with Joe Jiménez recovering from knee surgery.
Estévez would provide a reliable right-handed option in the bullpen while potentially offering long-term value beyond 2025. Current closer Raisel Iglesias is set to hit free agency after next season, and Estévez could seamlessly step into that role if needed.
Financially, a deal for Estévez could hover around $14 million annually over three years, according to Spotrac’s market value analysis. That would mark a significant bump from the $6.75 million he earned last season, but it reflects his improved performance.
His career 4.47 ERA may raise eyebrows, but much of that came during his tenure with the Colorado Rockies, where Coors Field’s hitter-friendly environment can inflate numbers. Outside of Colorado, Estévez has shown substantial improvement.
The Price Tag: A Worthwhile Investment or a Gamble?
Despite his upside, there’s an element of risk here. Estévez only has one season of consistent dominance under his belt.
Committing to a hefty contract based on limited success is a gamble—though one that could pay off for a team with championship aspirations like Atlanta.
Looking Beyond Estévez: Other Options for the Braves
The Braves are also reportedly interested in left-handed pitcher Tanner Scott, another strong option to fortify their bullpen.
Landing both pitchers might stretch the budget, but adding even one could solidify the Braves bullpen for the coming season and beyond.
Ultimately, the Braves will weigh the cost against the potential benefits. If they can strike the right deal, Estévez could be a valuable addition to their pitching staff, providing stability and an insurance plan for the future.
