Carlos Estévez Landing Spots: Predicting 3 ideal fits for former All-Star closer coming off best season of his career

It was another solid season for veteran reliever Carlos Estévez, who split time between the LA Angels and Philadelphia Phillies. Although he struggled at times with the Phillies after being acquired at the trade deadline, he still put together a strong campaign overall.

Over 55.0 innings of work in 2024, Estévez posted a 4-5 record with a 2.45 ERA, 26 saves and 50 strikeouts. The 31-year-old should attract plenty of interest from clubs looking to add to the bullpen arms race heading into 2025. It remains to be seen if Estévez will be looking to secure another closing role or be content with pitching in lower-leverage situations.

Here's a closer look at 3 potential landing spots for Carlos Estévez in free agency

#1. Boston Red Sox

The Boston Red Sox might be the ideal fit for Estévez in free agency. Boston's front office has been busy this offseason revamping the team's roster, including acquiring Garrett Crochet, Walker Buehler and Aroldis Chapman. If they could add Estévez to that mix, it could go a long way toward returning to the postseason in 2025.

It remains to be seen if Estévez would serve as the team’s main closer, as both Chapman and Liam Hendriks have experience thriving in that role. Either way, bringing in the All-Star reliever could be an ideal move for both parties.

#2. Toronto Blue Jays

The Toronto Blue Jays are in the market for a closer, and Carlos Estévez could fit the bill. After deciding to non-tender former All-Star Jordan Romano, the Blue Jays front office could look to bring in the Angels’ former closer to replace him.

The club already has a solid veteran core of Yimi García, Chad Green and Erik Swanson. However, Estévez could take the reins closer if they added him.

#3. Chicago Cubs

The Chicago Cubs are likely not finished this offseason after making one of the biggest splashes by trading for Kyle Tucker. Despite adding the superstar outfielder, the Cubs’ roster still has a few areas that need to be addressed before the start of the new season.

Porter Hodge was solid for them in 2024, but he has only thrown 43.0 innings in the majors and will likely want more proven bullpen depth for the new campaign. Regarding bullpen depth, teams can never have too many options, especially for pitchers with the track record of Carlos Estévez. It would not be surprising to see the Cubs pursue a big-ticket closer in free agency.