Blue Jays' free agent target signs with Kansas City

The Goku-loving closer who shares his name with a famous Hollywood actor has signed a two-year deal with the Kansas City Royals. It comes with an option for a third year. New York Post's Jon Heyman was first to report the signing.

While the Blue Jays were tangentially connected to Estevez during the offseason, it is unknown how serious talks became, especially after the Blue Jays signed Estevez bullpen mate in Philadelphia, Jeff Hoffman.

While Estevez certainly could have a dynamic duo with Hoffman in the back-end of Toronto's bullpen, the Blue Jays may have also wanted a cheaper alternative.

Per MLB's Mark Feinsand, the Royals are paying Estevez $20MM over two years, with the year three option said to be for $13MM. The deal, which also includes a $2MM buyout amounts to a total of either 2/$22MM or 3/$33MM if the option is exercised.

Estevez, who spent the first six seasons of his career with Colorado, performed well with Philadelphia last year after coming over in a mid-season trade with the Angels. In 20 games for the Phils, he went 3-2 with a 2.57 ERA and six saves.

When combined with his numbers for Los Angeles, Estevez' 2024 numbers were 4-5 with a 2.45 ERA, .0909 WHIP and 26 saves in 59 games.

He has become an effective closer in recent years with a 26% strikeout rate, compared to an 8.7% walk rate.

For his career, Estevez is 27-31 with a 4.21 ERA and 86 saves.

SOURCE - MLB Trade Rumours

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