Carlos Estévez officially joined the Kansas City Royals’ bullpen on Friday after signing a two-year, $22 million contract. The deal also includes a club option for the 2027 season. To accommodate Estévez on the team’s 40-man roster, the Royals designated infielder Braden Shewmake for assignment.
At 32 years old, Estévez split last season between the Los Angeles Angels and the Philadelphia Phillies. He posted a 4-5 record with a 2.45 ERA and recorded 26 saves across 54 appearances. In July, he was traded to Philadelphia, where he played a key role in the team’s successful run to an NL East title. However, his postseason performance included a pivotal moment when he surrendered a game-changing grand slam to Francisco Lindor of the Mets during Game 4 of the National League Division Series.
Two years ago, Estévez was named an All-Star while pitching for the Angels. That season, he appeared in 63 games, compiling a 5-5 record with a 3.90 ERA. His strong performances in recent seasons made him a valuable addition to Kansas City’s bullpen.
Meanwhile, Shewmake’s time with the Royals came to an end after the club placed him on waivers. He had been claimed from the Chicago White Sox on January 8. Originally drafted in the first round by the Atlanta Braves in the 2019 amateur draft, Shewmake struggled to establish himself at the major league level. In his 31 career games, he has managed just a .118 batting average, hitting one home run and driving in four RBIs.
By acquiring Estévez, the Royals aim to strengthen their bullpen, bringing in a reliable late-inning arm with experience in high-pressure situations. Kansas City is looking to bolster its pitching staff, and Estévez’s ability to close games or serve as a setup option will be a key asset. His past success, including an All-Star appearance and a strong 2023 season, indicates that he could play a major role in the Royals’ relief corps.
On the other hand, Shewmake’s departure signals a shift in the team’s roster strategy. Once considered a promising prospect, the infielder has struggled to find consistency at the plate. His limited offensive production has made it difficult for him to secure a long-term spot on a major league roster. The Royals’ decision to move on from him suggests they are prioritizing immediate bullpen support over infield depth.
As the 2024 season approaches, Kansas City hopes that Estévez will provide stability in their bullpen. His track record suggests he can be a valuable contributor, particularly in late-inning situations. Meanwhile, Shewmake may seek a fresh start with another team as he attempts to establish himself in the majors.
