Kansas City Royals closer Carlos Estévez is headed to the 2025 MLB All-Star Game. The top reliever will replace Texas Rangers starter Jacob deGrom on the American League roster.
Estévez, 32, has shined in his first season with the Royals. He leads the AL with 25 saves and has posted a 2.03 ERA in 39 appearances.
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This is his second All-Star nomination. Estévez was named a 2023 All-Star with the Los Angeles Angels.
The Royals now have three All-Star representatives. Estévez will join teammates Bobby Witt Jr. and Kris Bubic at the 95th Midsummer Classic at Truist Park in Atlanta.
Witt and Bubic were selected as All-Star reserves last Sunday. It will be the first All-Star game appearance for Bubic. Witt will make his second All-Star appearance after putting on a show last year in Arlington, Texas.
Estévez was previously considered an All-Star snub. He initially wasn’t selected as an AL reserve despite being one of the top relievers in the league. However, he now gets his chance with injury replacements rolling in.
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The Royals signed Estévez this offseason prior to spring training. His presence has allowed the KC bullpen to have established roles. Estévez is the vocal leader and has been instrumental in mentoring young Royals relievers Steven Cruz and Angel Zerpa.
Estévez is also chasing Royals history. His 25 saves puts him on pace to chase the Royals’ franchise record of 47 saves set by Greg Holland in 2013.
And the current pace has included some special highlights. Estévez notched his 100th career save earlier this year. He is the first Royals reliever to earn an All-Star bid since Wade Davis and Kelvin Herrera in 2016.
The Royals (46-48) begin a three-game series against the New York Mets on Friday night at Kauffman Stadium. It will be the final series before the All-Star Break as the club looks to reach .500 and stay in contention for an AL Wild Card spot.