The Philadelphia Phillies could not carry a strong regular season over into the postseason. The team could look very different after free agency with some key players departing.
While listing the top 20 free agents and predicting where they would sign, FanSided's Nick Villano predicted that Phillies reliever Carlos Estévez would sign with the Arizona Diamondbacks.
"The Arizona Diamondbacks want to get back to the World Series after a pretty disappointing 2024," wrote Villano. "They have some big issues, including a returning Jordan Montgomery, but adding a supreme relief pitcher would solve some of their woes. "
Estévez was an All-Star in 2023 with the Los Angeles Angels. He was brought over to the Phillies at the trade deadline, with the idea that he would be a rental. He pitched well for the Phillies, recording six saves in 20 games with a 2.57 ERA. However, in the postseason, he gave up the famous grand slam to Francisco Lindor.
"Estevez built his craft in Colorado, so he’s used to playing well in the worst of situations. He went to Los Angeles, and he played really well for the Angeles. Then, when he was traded to Philadelphia, he lost no steps," wrote Villano. He did have a rough postseason, giving up the famous grand slam to Francisco Lindor that sent the Mets to the NLCS, but it’s one bad pitch."
Spotrac projects him to sign a three-year, $42 million deal in free agency. He had 31 saves in 2023 and 26 in 2024. He could serve as a team's closer wherever he signs.
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