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This isn't about finding a middle reliever; it's about acquiring a legitimate closer who can slam the door shut when the AL East heat gets suffocating.
The Blue Jays have been quiet this winter while the Yankees add 102 mph flamethrowers, but Ross Atkins might have one massive card left to play.
A new trade proposal has surfaced that brings Kansas City Royals closer Carlos Estévez to Toronto, and frankly, it checks every single box.
Estevez (Signed as International Free Agent in 2011) is coming off a dominant 2025 season where he racked up 42 saves and a sparkling 2.45 ERA.
He is entering the final year of his contract, set to earn $10.1 million in 2026 before hitting free agency.
The Royals, despite their success, have a crowded outfield and need salary flexibility. That makes Estévez a prime trade candidate.
The proposed deal? It’s bold but necessary.
Toronto acquires: RHP Carlos Estévez ($10.1M) Kansas City acquires: RHP Yimi Garcia, INF Addison Barger, and LHP Brendon Little.
A bullpen monster with proven ice in his veins
Why do this? Because relying solely on Jeff Hoffman (who had a solid 33-save season in 2025) is a gamble we shouldn't take.
Estévez gives you a two-headed monster at the back of the bullpen.
Imagine a 7th, 8th, and 9th inning sequence of Tyler Rogers' submarine funk, Hoffman's slider, and Estévez's high-octane heat. That is a nightmare for opposing hitters.
Losing Barger (Drafted 6th Round, 2018 by Toronto) stings, as he offers utility depth, but he’s blocked by other bats.
Yimi Garcia is solid, but he’s a setup man. Estévez is a closer. There is a difference in mentality.
The Blue Jays need to stop counting on "hope" for their bullpen and start counting on proven production.
This trade sends a message: We aren't just trying to make the playoffs; we're trying to lock down games in October.
Go get the man who led the league in saves. It’s time.
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| POLL | ||
JANVIER 29|269 ANSWERS Blue Jays and Royals looking at blockbuster 4-player trade offer Is Carlos Estévez the elite closer the Blue Jays are missing? | ||
| Yes | 166 | 61.7 % |
| No | 103 | 38.3 % |
| List of polls | ||