The New York Mets have been actively enhancing their roster during the offseason, signing players like Frankie Montas and Clay Holmes. However, they may still be on the lookout for bullpen reinforcements. With Tanner Scott recently joining the Los Angeles Dodgers, there's a ripple effect in the free agent market for relievers. One standout player who remains available is Carlos Estévez, a former All-Star relief pitcher. Christopher Kline from FanSided has suggested that the Mets should consider adding Estévez to their bullpen. Estévez had an impressive 2023 season with a 2.45 ERA and a 0.91 WHIP, making him a valuable asset. His experience and performance make him an attractive option for teams looking to strengthen their pitching staff.
Estévez's career trajectory includes significant milestones. In 2023, he was named an All-Star and achieved a commendable 3.90 ERA along with 31 saves. This year, his performance further improved as he recorded six saves in just 20 games with the Philadelphia Phillies. Despite these achievements, the Phillies might not be inclined to retain him due to financial constraints. Estévez's versatility and reliability on the mound have made him a sought-after commodity. Splitting time between the Angels and Phillies, he became a crucial addition at the trade deadline for Philadelphia. Over 54 appearances, he managed 26 saves and racked up 50 strikeouts, demonstrating his prowess in high-pressure situations.
While Estévez did face some challenges in October, including a notable grand slam allowed to Francisco Lindor, one poor outing shouldn't tarnish his overall market value. Analysts project that he could secure a lucrative three-year, $42 million contract this winter. If the Mets were to sign him, they could utilize Estévez either as a setup man or potentially allow him to share closing duties with Edwin Díaz. The combination of Estévez's experience and skill set would undoubtedly bolster the Mets' bullpen depth and flexibility.
As the offseason progresses, the Mets are positioning themselves to make strategic moves that can significantly impact their 2024 campaign. Adding a proven reliever like Carlos Estévez would not only enhance their bullpen but also provide them with more options for critical late-inning situations. The potential signing underscores the team's commitment to building a formidable pitching staff capable of competing at the highest level. Whether as a setup man or closer, Estévez's presence would bring stability and confidence to the Mets' pitching lineup.