The Philadelphia Phillies had a relatively uneventful offseason, but it’s the players they didn’t bring back who have sparked the most debate. While fans have criticized the team for letting Jeff Hoffman walk after his breakout season, another former Phillies reliever is making their decision look even worse: Carlos Estévez.
Estévez departed Philadelphia in free agency, signing a two-year, $22 million contract (with an option for a third year) with the Kansas City Royals. So far in 2025, Estévez has been outstanding, serving as a key piece of the Royals bullpen. He’s 2-1 with a 1.82 ERA and leads the American League with 19 saves as of Saturday’s games. On pace for a career-best season, he’s likely headed for his second All-Star selection. He also celebrated his 100th career save on June 5, with most of those coming over the past three seasons.
The Phillies acquired Estévez last July in a trade with the Angels, giving up pitching prospects Samuel Aldegheri and George Klassen. Estévez was solid in the regular season, posting a 3-2 record, 2.57 ERA, and six saves in 20 appearances. Though fans may remember the homer he surrendered to Francisco Lindor in the NLDS that hurt the team’s comeback bid, his overall postseason ERA was a respectable 3.38.
Despite mutual interest in a new deal, the Phillies and Estévez couldn’t come to terms, ending his brief time in Philadelphia. Now, that decision stings even more. With José Alvarado suspended and struggles from relievers like Jordan Romano, Matt Strahm, and Carlos Hernández (who was recently designated for assignment), the bullpen has faltered. Meanwhile, Estévez is thriving elsewhere — and the Phillies not only lost him, but also gave up top prospects in the trade. Aldegheri has already debuted for the Angels, and Klassen is highly regarded in their system. The Phillies bullpen now ranks near the bottom of the league with a 4.48 ERA (23rd overall).
Looking back, it’s hard not to wonder if letting Estévez go was a costly mistake.
