The Philadelphia Phillies bullpen faces uncertainty heading into the 2025 season, largely due to players like Carlos Estevez potentially moving on to other teams. While Estevez hasn’t signed anywhere yet, a return to the Phillies seems unlikely at this point.
Estevez, who was acquired by Philadelphia at the trade deadline, was one of the top relievers moved in 2024. He was considered one of the league’s best in the first half of the season and lived up to expectations with a 2.57 ERA and 161 ERA+.
Estevez is expected to receive a solid contract on the open market, which likely makes him unaffordable for the Phillies. If his market value drops, a reunion could be possible, but with the reliever market heating up and prices soaring, it’s unclear whether the Phillies will be able to compete.
Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report predicted Estevez could secure a three-year, $42 million contract with the Texas Rangers. Estevez has been dominant since leaving Colorado, making an All-Star appearance in 2023 and continuing his strong performance in 2024 with a 2.45 ERA, 0.91 WHIP, and 26 saves between the Angels and Phillies. His 57 saves over the past two seasons rank him ninth in the majors, and his performance makes him one of the best relievers in baseball.
A $42 million deal over three years would give Estevez a $14 million AAV, a reasonable figure for a 32-year-old reliever. If he continues his recent success, he would likely justify that contract. The Phillies could afford it if they chose to prioritize him, but with other roster needs, that money might be better spent elsewhere.
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