MLB News: August 6th

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The Philadelphia Phillies have acquired right-hander Carlos Estevez from the Los Angeles Angels, trading pitching prospects George Klassen and Samuel Aldegheri to Anaheim. This trade enhances the Phillies’ bullpen as they gear up for a playoff run. 

The Angels Closer

Estevez, 31, joined the Angels on a two-year deal before the 2023 season after a breakout year with the Rockies, where he posted a 3.47 ERA despite pitching half his games at Coors Field. Estevez’s 2023 season was notable; he was an All-Star with a stellar 1.80 ERA in the first half. 

However, his performance dipped in the second half, ending with a 6.59 ERA over 27 1/3 innings. Estevez has bounced back this year, making him one of the market’s most attractive rental relief arms.

In 2024, Estevez excelled as the Angels’ closer, recording 20 saves in 34 innings with a strong 2.38 ERA. His 25.8% strikeout rate is slightly below last year’s 27.8%, but his command has significantly improved. 

After walking 11% of batters last season, Estevez has reduced his walk rate to just 4% in 2024. He has also allowed only three home runs, and his 2.85 FIP, 2.67 xERA, and 3.35 SIERA make him one of the league’s best late-inning relievers.

The Impact on the Phillies

The Phillies have added Estevez to replace right-hander Seranthony Dominguez, who was traded to the Orioles for outfielder Austin Hays. 

Estevez is expected to serve as the Phillies’ closer, allowing Jose Alvarado, Jeff Hoffman, and Matt Strahm to pitch in high-leverage situations earlier in games. This bolsters a bullpen with a 3.96 ERA, which places it 16th in the majors, as the Phillies aim for a postseason berth.

The Halos Boost their Farm System 

In return for Estevez, the Angels receive two top-ten pitching prospects from the Phillies’ system. 

George Klassen ranked fifth and has been a standout since his promotion to High-A earlier this year. Drafted in the sixth round in 2023, Klassen dominated Single-A with a 0.71 ERA in nine starts before his promotion. Despite a 4.22 ERA in High-A, he maintains a 35.2% strikeout rate, though his 10% walk rate suggests control issues. His rapid progression fits well with the Angels’ aggressive promotion strategy.

Samuel Aldegheri, ranked seventh, has also shown promise. Signed out of Italy in 2019, the 22-year-old lefty has improved his stock this year with a 3.23 ERA over 78 innings between High-A and Double-A. 

In 15 starts, he boasts a 34% strikeout rate and a 10% walk rate. While Aldegheri lacks a standout pitch, his solid command and five-pitch mix could make him a viable MLB starter. This pitching-heavy return aids an Angels rotation needing stability, especially with veteran Tyler Anderson potentially being traded.

Estevez’s arrival significantly strengthens the Phillies’ bullpen, which is crucial for their playoff push. As MLB  Betting Lines adjust to this trade, the Phillies have positioned themselves as stronger contenders. The Angels, meanwhile, continue to balance immediate competitiveness with long-term planning by acquiring promising young arms for their future rotation.