The velocity problems that had plagued Royals closer Carlos Estévez during spring training carried over into his first appearance of the regular season on Saturday, and may cost him his closer’s role, according to manager Matt Quatraro. After Estévez gave up six runs in the ninth inning in a 6-2 loss to the Braves, Quatraro indicated that the 2025 MLB saves leader may work in lower-leverage situations for a bit.
Estévez had trouble breaking 90 mph in spring training, raising alarm bells with many observers. On Saturday, he averaged 91.2 mph on his fastball, with erratic command, particularly on his change up. He gave up a single, pop out, single, walk, and single, before Dominic Smith hit a walk-off grand slam. Estévez threw just 13 of his 27 pitches for a strike, and got just one swing-and-miss. Last year he averaged 95.9 mph on his fastball.
Estévez also took a line drive off the ankle last night, and is in a walking boot today, making him likely unavailable for the Sunday series finale. The Royals will continue to evaluate the ankle contusion.
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